Police are warning horse owners in Lincolnshire to be “extra vigilant” after two yards were broken into last week (23 February).
More than 20 rugs, grooming kits, riding boots, horse medical kit, hay nets and a wheelbarrow were taken from stables in the Goulceby area of Louth.
“We were called out at 7.20am,” said a Lincolnshire police spokesman.
The thieves came through a hedge and across a field to access the yard, which was in a remote area.
The second theft took place at nearby stables in the Gautby area.
“One the same morning at 9.10am we had a report of another stables in a nearby village being broken into. A large quantity of tack and horse-related equipment was taken,” added the police.
A yard was flooded when the police arrived as a hose pipe had been broken during the theft.
The stolen property from both incidents was recovered on Saturday (27 February) in an unsecured barn on a nearby farm.
The owners were “over the moon” to find the equipment had been found.
“We are investigating the likelihood that both events are connected,” said a police spokesman.
“Equestrian theft is not uncommon in the county so horses owners should be vigilant and report any concerns to the police.”
Owners are being urged to make sure tack is not left in an unlocked and easily accessible location.
Wheelbarrows should not be left near stables as can be used to transport equipment off site.
All saddles and rugs should be security marked to deter thieves. The community safety department at police headquarters can arrange a site visit to assess tack security requirements.
Anyone with any information about either incident should contact Lincolnshire police on 101 or ring Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
