43 Scotch Mule X Suffolk lambs have been taken from a field in Godney, near Glastonbury. Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for anyone in the area who may have seen suspicious activity to get in touch.

This theft is the first one of the season, and the police are proactively working with farmers to raise awareness and promote crime-prevention tactics, in order to protect farmers from criminals taking advantage of the lambing season.

PC Katy Drabble from the Rural Crime Team, said: “Livestock theft has a huge impact on the livelihood of individual farmers and small holders. Not only do they have to buy new stock but it takes a long-time to build up a well-established flock again; the long term impact is massive.

“We are asking the communities of Somerset to be vigilant for anyone moving livestock around particularly at night, which is an unusual time to do so. If you see people in fields or with vehicles containing livestock at night, please give us a call - we would rather ascertain a person is there legitimately, than have to deal with a subsequent theft.”

Dom Creed, 43 from Wells has been shepherding for 25 years. He said: “I just want them back. I’ve been breeding lambs for a long time and they’re very important to me. If anyone has any information please get in touch with the police.”

There are a number things farmers can do to protect themselves from thieves such as ensuring boundaries and gates are in good order and wherever possible locked. Farmers should also take care to not to leave any equipment lying around that could assist offenders in stealing livestock for example handling equipment or trailers. Securing vulnerable access points around fields with boulders, deep ditches or tree trunks also prevents criminals having easy access.

Anyone in the trade and buying of livestock should check the provenance and documentation of the animals is as it should be too, and Avon and Somerset Police would remind members of the public that if someone is offering you animals/butchery products for a price that seems too good to be true, then it probably is.

If you believe to have seen suspicious activity, get in touch online, or by calling: 101 quoting reference: 52180 64931. If you’d like to remain anonymous, you can also contact Crimestoppers on: 0800 555111.