TWO seven-ton forklift trucks were stolen from an industrial site in Spaldwick as thieves crashed through a fence and gate to escape with their £60,000 haul. The criminals left a trail of destruction as they stole the Caterpillar forklift trucks from Kir

TWO seven-ton forklift trucks were stolen from an industrial site in Spaldwick as thieves crashed through a fence and gate to escape with their £60,000 haul.

The criminals left a trail of destruction as they stole the Caterpillar forklift trucks from Kirby Agricultural Ltd in Thrapston Road.

The thieves jumped over the firm's fence and once onboard the massive black and yellow lifting machines, made their getaway ploughing through neighbouring fences and fields.

Paul Williamson, manager of Kirby Agricultural Ltd, told The Hunts Post this was the first time forklift trucks had been stolen from the site in the 15 years he has worked there.

"We had a break-in about two years ago but nothing on this scale. Those forklifts had a combined value of £60,000," he said.

"We had only taken delivery of them a month ago and had lined up a buyer and were waiting for them to be collected. We will now have to find replacements."

Mr Williamson added that the company would be looking to improve security at the site.

The vehicles were stolen between 5pm on Thursday, June 26 and 8am the following day.

On the front of one of the forklifts is a yellow and black pallet fork carriage with JCB Q-fit brackets.

Pc Allison Hillier, who is investigating, said: "I would like to speak to anyone who can recall seeing anything suspicious near the business compound in Thrapston Road. Any sightings of strange vehicles or people behaving oddly could be useful for the investigation."

INFORMATION: Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Hillier on 0845 4564564 or Crimestoppers.