Polowood Shooting Ground in Brighton has been hit by an overnight raid, with thieves stealing around £30,000 worth of equipment, including 25 Weihrauch break-barrel air rifles.
The criminals gained access to the St Mary’s Farm site by smashing through hedgerows and cutting barbed wire fences. As well as the rifles, valued at about £600 each, they also took pellets and power tools.
With 40 shooters booked for the following day, owner Gary Coomber faced disruption but kept the ground open thanks to rapid support from local gun shops. He thanked C&H Weston for stepping in to provide replacement air rifles and riflescopes.
Coomber said he hoped the stolen rifles would soon prove “too hot to handle.”
Although this is the fourth break-in at Polowood, it is the first in seven years. The venue also offers clay and rifle shooting, axe throwing and outdoor events.
Sussex Police are investigating and urge anyone with information to quote serial 332 of 24/07.