A CALF just two days old has been stolen from a farm building as police receive reports of a spate of livestock thefts in Worcestershire.

Police were notified of the most recent theft of the calf, which took place in Chaddesley Corbett, earlier today.

The theft follows reports of other livestock being stolen recently at other locations, including two ewes from farmland in Frankley Green the day before where one lamb was found bound and in some distress.

Natalie Lowe, rural and business crime officer, said: “We have seen an increase in the number of reported thefts of livestock around the north Worcestershire area over the last few weeks.

"While we are working closely with colleagues at Warwickshire Police and West Midlands Police to try and identify offenders we would also like to ask for the public’s help – especially those in rural and farming communities."

Police advise farmers to reinforce boundaries with fencing or additional vegetation planting, to block any gates or access points not in use with bollards, boulders or tree trunks and to check on any livestock near roads more often – especially those with young.

Animal owners are advised to conduct a daily count to help identify any missing animals sooner and give the police a greater chance of identifying windows of time to investigate.

People are urged to consider setting up a watch scheme with neighbours such as a messaging group to share information or warn others of issues or suspicious activities in the area.

Farmers and animal owners can also take a note of vehicle registrations and models and give descriptions of any suspects including their gender, age, hair colour and clothing,

Thefts can be reported to the police on 101 or via the online service at www.westmercia.police.uk