On Monday night/Tuesday morning this week, our secure container was broken into and most of our equipment was stolen. It was well planned and organised and must have needed at least two people with heavy croppers and bars or log shifters to break in, and a substantial trailer or lorry to transport away the goods.  We have lost a Honda quad bike and trailer, a brand new hydraulic log splitter, three chain saws, two of them belonging to the forest manager, a stainless steel spade and a graip, both orange, two blue Draper spades used by younger volunteers, an axe, a brand new splitting maul, and various other tools and PPE.

Without this equipment we are unable to keep the forest safe, and we will have to buy new equipment to do so. This means that funds for development of the forest for the continuing enjoyment of the public will be restricted, and our plans for development will be delayed.

We would be grateful for any information which might lead to recovery of the equipment. Did anyone see someone acting suspiciously near the container? Have you been offered small tools for sale? Have you a guilty conscience? If you can help, please phone Thurso Police on 01847 893222 or contact Jon Hollingdale, Forest Manager, by phone or e-mail as above.