Appeal following meat thefts

Police are appealing for information after meat was stolen from farm shops in Longstanton and Cottenham.

Thieves smashed windows and broke padlocks at a business off Station Road, in Longstanton, at about 8.30pm on Friday (1 December).

Meat, vegetables and soup were then stolen from a freezer.

In Cottenham, a gate at the business in Oakington Road was also smashed by thieves between 5.30pm on the same day and 7am the following day.

They then forced their way into the rear of the building and searched the office, before stealing a large quantity of meat from a walk-in freezer.

Sergeant Tom Nuttall said: "At this time of year any establishment selling poultry and meat can be vulnerable to burglary and theft. In particular, farm shops and butchers may be targeted.

"There are simple measures that can help to deter intruders. Be alert to any unusual or suspicious behaviour at your premises, or land near to it. Even phone calls asking which types of meat you stock or anything that seems out of the ordinary.

“Consider installing security alarms and CCTV systems, to protect buildings, stock and equipment.

“The public also have a part to play. If you notice suspicious activity near farm shops, or other outlets selling meat, please contact us.”

To report information, please visit https://www.cambs.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ using reference 35/89371/23 for the Longstanton burglary or 35/89309/23 for the Cottenham burglary.

Alternatively, call 101.