MORE than 200 lambs and sheep have been stolen from farmland in North Yorkshire in recent weeks.

North Yorkshire Police has warned farmers to be vigilant after 228 animals were stolen from farms near Kirkbymoorside, Fewston near Harrogate, Skipton, Settle, and Thornton Le Clay, York, since mid-September.

Breeds taken include Continental, Texel, Suffolk, Swaledale and Lonk sheep, and pedigree Beltex ewes, and farmers have been urged to make regular checks on their stock, keep hedgerows and gates in good repair, secure gates so they cannot be lifted off, and consider fitting CCTV for livestock kept in barns or sheds.

Sergeant Martin McLachlan, wildlife crime co-ordinator for North Yorkshire Police, said: "I am asking farmers to make sure that they make regular checks of their livestock.

"If you see anyone acting suspiciously or unusual vehicles in or around fields containing livestock, I urge you to contact the police immediately. We would far rather attend and not be needed than miss the opportunity to arrest and deter criminals from offending. We are also keen to speak to anyone who may be offered meat in suspicious circumstances and ask them to get in touch straight away."

For more information about farm security go to northyorkshire.police.uk/farmsecurity and suspicious behaviour should be reported on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.