GARDENERS at an East Yorkshire allotment say they are devastated after more than 20 sheds were broken into and costly tools stolen.

Plot holders arrived at the site on The Mile, in Pocklington, on Saturday morning to discover the sheds had been raided, badly damaged, and equipment stolen.

Joe Goddard, chairman of the Pocklington Allotment Association, said: “Everyone is devastated. People have had tools stolen that have been passed down through generations. There is a significant financial cost to those affected to put right the damage to their sheds and replace the stolen items, but the sentimental value of some items can never be replaced.” Police are appealing for witnesses. The theft occurred overnight on Friday, May 20, to Saturday, May 21. It is believed offenders used wheelbarrows to move items from the sheds to the vehicles.

Sergeant Peter Rogers, of the Pocklington Policing Team, said: “Checks are being made by patrols on an evening and we are circulating crime prevention advice.”

Anyone with information should phone Humberside Police on 0845 60 60 222.