PART of a JCB digger parked in a field in High Bentham was stolen sometime over a week long period leaving it inoperable and its owner with a bill of around £22,000.

Police say an electronic unit was stripped from the dashboard of the excavator parked in a field off Clapham Road sometime between January 10 and January 17.

A police spokesperson said: "If you noticed anything, or anyone, suspicious, please let us know. "

The spokesperson added: "We would urge people to be more mindful of any machinery that is left unattended for periods of time and to conduct regular checks to ensure it remains safe and secure. "

Anyone with any information, is asked to call police on the non-emergency 101 number, and quote the reference number 12240 010347; or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.