(Updated 15/5/01)

Collies recovered after animal centre break-in

STAFF AT a south west based animal charity were in a state of shock this week after thieves used bolt cutters to back through a security fence burst locks and make off with three collie dogs.

Police are investigating the break-in at the Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home near Plymouth, where animals from all over West Devon and East Cornwall are given a home.

The thieves cut a three foot hole in the perimeter fence before making a beeline for the kennels, forcing their way in to steal the three dogs.

“This really is sickening. We are now going to have to spend money on increased security measures which should go on the care of our dogs and cats” said Tony Harris, Gables Farm General Manager.

“When we moved to this new 11 acre site two years ago security was high on our agenda and we installed CCTV video cameras, alarms and security fencing. We played back the CCTV tapes but the thieves were just out of shot - they must have checked out the security on a previous visit.”

Two of the Collies, Jig and Freddie, have not been found and returned, while the third, Buddy, is being looked after at an address in Plymouth.