The theft of plant machinery in Christchurch occurred at around 2am on Sunday 11 February in a field in the Blackwater area.

A Yanmar SV15 digger with Nicholas Hire written on it and a Terex one ton dumper were stolen.

“An investigation is underway into this incident, with the theft of the stolen items valued at over £10,000,” said PC Sebastian Haggett of the Rural Crime Team. “I am appealing to anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the Blackwater area around the relevant time, or have captured any footage to assist our enquiries, to please come forward.

“Also, I am issuing images of the stolen machinery and would ask anyone who has information about its whereabouts to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240021765. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.