POLICE have launched an appeal over stolen cockerels amid fears they will be used for fighting.

Ten show cockerels and five show hens worth £1,000 were taken from outbuildings in Sheards Lane, Stanford in the Vale, between 7.30pm on Monday and 5am on Tuesday.

The police have identified three culprits, all male and wearing hooded tops.

Any witnesses to the crime are urged to come forward by the force.

PC Tom Pryor said: “The chickens and cockerels have great sentimental value to the victim, who has displayed the birds at many shows across the country.

“Two of the chickens taken were part of the bloodline that the victim has bred for several decades.

“The victim is extremely worried that the animals have been stolen for cock fighting.”