POLICE are appealing for witnesses following the theft of a horse rug dryer from a farm in West Linton.

The item, reported as stolen on Sunday, is believed to have been taken from an outbuilding some time last week.

The dryer, valued at around £800, is a heavy object and would require a couple of people and a vehicle to remove it.

Chief Inspector Andrew Clark said: “Farms and rural properties are often considered attractive propositions for would-be thieves, given their remote locations in many instances.

“However, by making sure that items and outbuildings are properly secured will help to deter criminal activity. Buildings and vehicles should always be locked securely when unattended and where possible, alarms and CCTV cameras should be considered.

“Ensuring items of value are stored out of sight will also help protect your property and storage containers for fuel should also be placed in areas that are not easily visible to other members of the public.

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or make an anonymous report through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.