Police are appealing for information after 21 Cheviot cross ewe lambs were taken from farmland near Llandderfel, on the border between Gwynedd and Denbighshire.
The animals were reported missing from land at Bryn Meredydd, close to the village, during a period running from Saturday 24 October to Monday 26 October. Police have described the incident as a potential livestock theft and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Animals identified by markings and tags
The lambs are aged between six and 10 months. They have a red spot marking between their shoulders and are fitted with yellow and brown ear tags, details which may help farmers, hauliers, livestock markets or members of the public identify them.
“Between Saturday 24 October and Monday 26 October, 21 Cheviot cross ewe lambs were taken from farmland near Bryn Meredydd.”
A spokesperson said that officers wanted to hear from anyone who had seen the lambs, noticed unusual activity around the holding or observed vehicles towing livestock trailers in the area during the relevant period.
Information sought by the Rural Crime Team
PC Ian Nicholls, from the Rural Crime Team, said the impact of the incident extended beyond the immediate loss of stock. The animals are ewe lambs, meaning that their disappearance also removes potential replacements from the affected flock ahead of the next breeding season.
“The loss of livestock at any time is significant, but at this time of year it is felt even more acutely as farmers are not only losing stock, but also valuable breeding potential for next spring.”
Police are asking for information from people who may have seen the lambs or suspicious activity near Bryn Meredydd between the dates given. They are also seeking observations of livestock trailers or other vehicles that may have been involved.
- Animals: 21 Cheviot cross ewe lambs
- Age: six to 10 months
- Location: farmland near Bryn Meredydd, close to Llandderfel
- Identification: red spot marking between the shoulders, with yellow and brown ear tags
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact police through the live webchat or by calling 101, quoting reference 26000878398. The appeal covers information about the lambs themselves, activity around the farm and any livestock transport seen in the area during the stated period.
