Farmers warned over increase in sheep thefts

Farmers are being targeted by thieves who have stolen thousands of pounds of sheep in a spate of raids on farms in Mid Wales, it was revealed today.

Six white faced mules were stolen from Lower Llifor farm in Berriew, near Welshpool between Monday and Saturday last week, Dyfed-Powys Police said today.

It is the latest in a string of sheep rustling incidents in the region in recent months, with sheep worth thousands of pounds stolen in the past 16 months.

It is understood that the six white faced mules could be worth more than £1,500.

Antony Topazio, force spokesman, said: "The six stolen from Berriew were tagged with UK701039 and UK700721 and anyone with information should contact the police."

Just last week the force teamed up with the Farmers' Union of Wales and the National Farmers Union of Wales to tackle farm thefts.

Adrian Evans, of the FUW, said: "Sheep thefts in Wales have escalated significantly in recent years and many of our members have suffered major losses as a result.

"Our new Farm Watch which has been only just been launched is free to join and will help improve communication between farmers and the police in order to reduce the opportunities for crime and vandalism."

Constable Hefin Jones, of Dyfed Powys Police, added: "These are serious offences which can have a significant impact on the livelihood of the victims and the rural community at large."