Saddles stolen in Pattingham raids

Thirty saddles have been stolen along with bridles, girths and other riding equipment in the latest raids on stables and livery yards in South Staffordshire.

The most recent haul – worth £6,000 – was being stored in a metal shipping container at The Mill Riding Centre in Warstone Hill Road, Pattingham.

The theft on November 1 came days after up to 10 saddles were stolen from a similar container in a livery yard in nearby Patsull Road.

Horse blankets and water troughs have also been taken during the raids.

Tim Budd, who runs Mill Riding Centre, said today: "I was cleaned out of gear and yet just hours later, I had enough tack to saddle up 15 horses.

"I would like to thank all those friends, neighbours and colleagues who have come to the rescue."