THIEVES stole 25 lambs from a field near Scarborough.

North Yorkshire Police said the theft happened at Riggs Head, Irton Moor Lane, and was reported on August 9, but took place on July 26.

The gate to the lambs' field was left open by the suspects and the lambs were allowed free, and it is believed 25 of them were subsequently stolen.

Police said the lambs had recently been dipped and their meat could cause illness if consumed, so advised members of the public to be cautious of any lamb offered for sale under dubious circumstances and to contact the police on 101 quoting reference 12180147407 if they have been offered any cheap lamb meat for sale.