Thieves broke into a yard and stole a trailer.

Sometime between 9am on Tuesday, June 19 and 8.10am on Wednesday, June 20 a person or several people entered a yard and barn via a locked gate just off the A35 near Bere Regis.

They cut through a wheel lock and towing hitch to free a 16ft Ifor Williams galvanised steel flatbed trailer.

The trailer was then stolen.

A tractor was also searched and a hammer was taken.

Police said enquiries were underway in the area to locate the trailer and identify the offenders but they are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Police Constable Clare Gillard, of Purbeck police, said: "This crime has had a significant financial impact on the farmer. I am appealing to anyone who witnessed this incident or saw suspicious individuals or vehicles in the area at the relevant time to please contact Dorset Police.

"Any members of the community, particularly the farming community, who would like advice on how to better secure their homes or businesses, can visit www.dorset.police.uk for how to contact their local neighbourhood policing team or access crime prevention advice."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180094955. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.