High-Value Bikes and Power Tools Stolen in Temple Hirst Barn Burglary

Rural Barn Targeted in Overnight Break-in

North Yorkshire Police have launched an investigation following a costly burglary at a rural property in the quiet village of Temple Hirst, near Selby. The break-in targeted a barn situated on the village's main road and occurred overnight between 9:00 pm on Friday, May 15, and 12:30 pm on Saturday, May 16. During the incident, thieves successfully made off with a number of high-value items stored inside the outbuilding, including two bicycles and various expensive power tools.

Police Search for Two Unidentified Males

Investigating officers are now appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the culprits. A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police stated: “We are particularly interested in any footage that may show two unidentified males in the area during the stated times.” The police are actively urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or who possesses relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. Members of the public with information are asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting the official crime reference number 12260088860.

Securing Barns and Outbuildings

Rural outbuildings, barns, and sheds are frequently targeted by thieves looking for expensive, easily resaleable items like power tools and bicycles. Owners should review their security:

• Upgrade the physical security of barn doors by installing heavy-duty hasps and closed-shackle padlocks, ensuring the screws cannot be easily unscrewed from the outside.
• Consider installing a standalone, battery-operated shed alarm that emits a high-decibel siren if the doors are forced open.
• Security mark all power tools and bicycles with a UV pen or forensic marking liquid, and clearly display signage indicating that the property is marked, which heavily deters thieves.