writes Jason Lewis.

AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after five show cockerels worth £1,500 were stolen from a farm.

The theft of various breeds, including a Bearded Asil and a Shamo Stag, from a secured outbuilding in the Mampitts Lane area of Shaftesbury took place sometime between 11.30am and 8.50pm on Saturday, January 18.

Police officers investigating the incident have released images of some of the cockerels, which are valued at £300 each, and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

PC Neil Hawkes, of Dorset Police, said: “We are continuing to make enquiries to identify who is responsible for these thefts and I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area at the relevant time to please contact us.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have come across any cockerels in unusual circumstances since Saturday January 18.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200009080. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.