ANOTHER north Cotswold stables has been targeted by thieves who made off with thousands of pounds-worth of tack.

Raiders forced their way into Willersey stables at Willersey overnight last Saturday by prising open a window. Once inside they broke a padlock to gain access to the tack room and then stole 30 saddles, a chainsaw and a hedge trimmer, with a combined value of more than £5,000.

Owner Rachel Ingles said she knew other stables in the area had suffered break-ins in recent weeks and added: "It was only a matter of time before they came to us." She said the saddles belonged to her and to riders who kept their horses at the stables.

Cotswold police are warning other horse-owners to be on their guard, take security precautions they can and to report any suspicious vehicles or people seen near their properties.