Thieves struck in a mash and grab raid as 1.5 tonnes of potatoes were stolen from a field in Outwell.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident which took place between 10pm on Sunday, July 21, and 9am on Monday, July 22, on a field adjoining Basin Road in Outwell. Offenders have dug over a section of the field measuring about an eighth of an acre and removed the immature potato crop.

The theft comes less than three weeks after 500 potatoes were stolen from a field near Hall Road, Outwell. It is as yet unclear whether the two crimes are linked or if another gang of spud thieves are chipping in.

Anyone with information should contact PC David Mallett at Downham Market Police Station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.