Rare turkeys found safe and well

The thieves are thought to have stolen sacks from a barn to carry the birds

Seven rare show turkeys stolen from a farm in Hampshire have been found alive on a bridle way in Owslebury.

Two Lavender turkeys and five Croellwitzer turkeys were taken from their sheds in Twyford, near Winchester, on 7 November.

Their owner feared the birds, which are bred for showing and not for meat, had been stolen for the Christmas trade.

They were discovered on Sunday, 15 November, after being missing for more than a week.

PC Jon Radcliffe said: "This sort of theft is more common at this time of year and I would like to continue to urge farmers and owners to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us."

The birds weighed up to 44lbs (20kg) each and officers believe their weight would have meant it was likely that more than one person was involved in removing them.

Police are still appealing for information about the theft, which happened between 2200 GMT on 6 November and 0600 GMT on 7 November.