Thieves strike at Stowupland Bowls Club taking up to £40,000 worth of equipment

Raiders have struck at Stowupland Bowls Club getting away with approximately £40,000 worth of equipment such as lawn mowers, strimmers and other heavy machinery.

It took place at some point between Tuesday, October 22, at 2.30pm, and 9am the following day.

Police said entry was gained through the front gate by sheering off the padlock and they broke into the shed containing the equipment by sheering off the locks.

It is thought a wheelbarrow has likely been used to transport some of the material over the green.

Sgt Chris Green from the Rural Crime and Wildlife Team said: “Our enquiries into the incident are on-going and we’d appeal for anyone who saw or heard any suspicious behaviour in the area to get in touch with us.

“We had a similar high value burglary at Semer earlier this month and we are linking these two incidents.

“The bowls club has a large membership and I have no doubt that this is going to have a real impact on that community and the club members with much distress caused.

“The clocks go back this weekend, meaning shorter days and more darkness so it is a timely opportunity to remind people with business and residential properties to review your security measures and stay vigilant to suspicious behaviour. There is a wealth of guidance available on our website.”

Anyone who heard or saw any suspicious activity during the times stated, or knows the whereabouts of any of the items stolen should contact Suffolk police,, quoting crime reference 37/60454/24

Website – https://www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

Email: Colin.Taylor@suffolk.police.uk

Phone – Call 101.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org