THIEVES have stolen 80 trees from an industrial estate near Dorchester.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident and anyone with information about the mass tree theft to come forward.

The crime occurred overnight between Thursday and Friday of last week at the Enterprise Industrial Park at Piddlehinton.

All of the 80 newly-planted Laurel trees that lined the boundary to the estate were uprooted and taken.

Sergeant James Rowe, of Dorchester Police, said: “I am appealing to the public to help with our investigation into who the offenders might me.

“Any witnesses and people who may have information regarding the theft are urged to contact Dorset Police.”

No arrests have been made.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting crime number 15:18204.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.