Story by TOM JACKSON SECURITY measures are to be stepped up at a Fenland college after farming equipment worth thousands of pounds was stolen in a night time raid. Thieves struck at the College of West Anglia s land-based campus, in Wisbech, overnight on

Story by TOM JACKSON

SECURITY measures are to be stepped up at a Fenland college after farming equipment worth thousands of pounds was stolen in a night time raid.

Thieves struck at the College of West Anglia's land-based campus, in Wisbech, overnight on October 11 and stole a Kubota RTV 900 quad-bike, a Kubota B1550 tractor and a Husqvarna ride-on lawnmower.

Bill Collinson, head of land-based studies at the college, said: "Enhanced security measures will be put in place to deter thieves in the future.

"It has had a big impact on the college because our insurance rates will go up, the equipment will cost a lot to replace and the students have suffered because they have not had the access to the equipment.

"Staff are working very hard to minimise the impact on the students, and replacements will be sought as soon as is practicable."

The burglary occurred at the college's agricultural yard off Newcommon Bridge, between 7pm on October 11 and 7am next morning. The intruders lifted a metal gate from its hinges at the front of the yard and broke into a barn to steal the machinery.

Pc Stacy Smith, of March Police Station, said: "This equipment was used by students at the College of West Anglia and I am keen to speak to anyone with information.

"I would particularly appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time, or has been offered or seen any of the stolen items since the burglary, to get in touch."

CONTACT: Pc Smith on 0845 456 4564 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.