Farmers and agrochemical dealers were warned to be on their guard after "well-organised" thieves stole a large quantity of herbicides from a Norfolk storage building.

Police are investigating the theft of chemicals from a commercial premises in East Harling, near Thetford, in the early hours of February 6.

Trade association the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) has warned farming and agronomy companies to be alert to the risk of further break-ins as the spring spraying season approaches. 

Growers were also urged to be "extremely cautious" if offered cheap products which do not come from a "known and reputable distribution company".

Hazel Doonan, AIC’s head of crop protection and agronomy, said: "Growers should be wary of inadvertently handling stolen goods and the potential damage to their business reputation, including the risk of breaching some farm assurance standards around traceability of inputs."

The stolen chemicals include products named Grazon, Basagran, Artist, Broadway Star, Maister, Signum and Pacifica Plus.

Anyone approached by a suspicious seller should report details to police via 101, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.