Around £40,000 worth of damage caused at Rutland Water Nature Reserve
It's after thieves broke into a training centre
Last updated 15th Nov 2024
Volunteers from the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust say they've been left 'devastated' after damage estimated at around £40,000 has been caused when thieves broke into a training centre.
They targeted the centre at Rutland Water, loading stolen machinery and equipment onto a lorry
But when they got stuck in the mud they set the lorry on fire.
The trust says they face a huge clean up bill.
It happened on Sunday 27th October.
“The damage caused to the nature reserve and the loss of some very recently acquired equipment has put our work back for months - vital work for the protection and enhancement of wildlife. I am deeply saddened by this” said one volunteer.
The equipment is used to help manage the nature reserve.
In a statement from the Trust, Joe Davis, Head of Reserves, commented, “This incident is a major setback to nature recovery efforts within our two counties. The money raised during our Reserves Appeal last year helped purchase some of this equipment, making its loss particularly devastating. We now face a huge cleanup bill, loss of essential equipment, and the postponement of many planned works."
Mat Carter, CEO of Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, added,
"The Trust is deeply saddened by this destructive act, which directly impacts the nature reserve, its operations, and the invaluable time and resources of our staff and volunteers.
"We are committed to restoring the reserve and ensuring it remains a safe and welcoming place for all."
Police are currently working to trace the vehicle, using CCTV footage from the centre to identify those responsible.