CALLOUS thieves targeted Winsford’s Over Allotments in the most significant incident in its history.

The allotments were targeted in the middle of the night on Wednesday, September 16.

The thieves gained access by cutting off a lock at the Over Recreation Ground through a gate that was padlocked. They then appeared to have used a key to gain entry through an interior gate.

Once inside, they targeted a number of sheds and shipping containers, stealing a ‘significant amount’ of equipment.

John Malam, chairman of the Over Allotments Association, said: “Over the years we have had a few problems with break-ins and vandalism, but this was on a whole different level.

“They broke into the shipping containers. They stole a significant amount of equipment.”

Inspector Dave Snasdell, Northwich Local Policing Unit, said a vehicle must have been used to remove the equipment from the site.

He said: “We have had a report of five sheds being broken into and items stolen, ranging from a generator, motorised garden equipment, tools and a small amount of cash.

“We are still investigating the incidents. We are looking at a long term solution to reduce crime within this community working with the town council.”

While it is still unclear as to who target the allotments, Mr Malam believes it was a meticulously planned heist.

He said: “As far as we’re concerned, this was organised crime. It must have been a gang.

“They came with the intention to commit a major break in. It was a planned crime. They knew exactly where to go.”

The site is insured and every member has been contacted by Over Allotments Association to inform them of the incident.

At the last Winsford Town Council meeting, councillors voted in favour to discuss how to improve security at the site.

Councillors discussed exploring the possibility of having a combination lock at the Over and Moss Bank entrances.

Mike Kennedy, councillor for the Dene ward, said: “This must be the worst case of thievery, vandalism, theft, call it what you want, of the Over Allotments in their history.

“I was absolutely shocked to see this amount of vandalism and theft of that level on the allotments – which is one of the most highly regarded in the country – can take place here in Winsford.

“I was lost for words, and probably still am.”

The police are now appealing for anyone with any information about the incident to come forward.

“PC Duncan Antrobus one of the Winsford beat managers is managing the investigation and long-term solution to reduce incidents in this area,” Insp Snasdell said.

“I would appeal to anyone with any information to report it to the police.

“This type of crime is devastating to the tenants who spend a lot of time tending to their allotments many of them elderly people.”

Anyone with information should call Cheshire Police on 101, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.