A small flock of ‘organic lawnmowers’ have been left temporarily out of work after thieves stole their pen.

East Anglian Daily Times: Joy Shaw with one of her sheep and a hurdle like those stolen from Blaxhall church. Picture by GARY DONNISONJoy Shaw with one of her sheep and a hurdle like those stolen from Blaxhall church. Picture by GARY DONNISON (Image: Gary Donnison Photography 2017)

Joy Shaw’s sheep are left to graze at Blaxhall churchyard, near Snape – encouraging wildflowers and reaching spots where mowers could cause damage to headstones.

At around dusk on Tuesday, August 15, nine metal hurdles were stolen from the church, while the sheep were penned in a nearby meadow.

The 6ft x 4ft hurdles have been valued at about £130, but Mrs Shaw thinks buying new replacements could cost twice that amount.

“We were hoping to get the sheep in the churchyard this week – but, with half the hurdles missing, we can’t,” said Mrs Shaw.

If you can help police with information about those responsible for the theft, or know the location of the hurdles, call 101 and quote CAD number 469 of August 16.

Alternatively, visit the ‘Report a Crime’ page at suffolk.police.uk.