Sheep rustlers steal 30 sheep from a farm in Isle of Skye

The blackfaced sheep stolen were taken from a farm on the Isle of Skye (Stock photo)
The blackfaced sheep stolen were taken from a farm on the Isle of Skye (Stock photo)

Police are investigating the disappearance of more than 30 sheep from a field in the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

The animals were taken at some point over the last six weeks from the Trotternish Ridge in the north of the island.

And now the local police force has asked the public for any tip-offs on the whereabouts of the flock.

Constable Katherine Tindall said: "We are asking that crofters in the Trotternish area check their land and also to report any suspicious activity, including unfamiliar vehicles with animal trailers in the area.

"Rural crime, be it the theft of animals, machinery or damage to property, hits hard at the heart of small communities and by all being vigilant we can make the area a hostile place for those intent on committing such crime."

The blackface sheep, of varying ages, have all been marked with black paint on their shoulders.

Last week, sheep rustlers stole more than 50 sheep in a raid on a north-east farm in Scotland.

And in February, rustlers stole almost 100 sheep worth just under £13,000 in a farm near Falkirk.