'Not only robbing the organisation but the wildlife': Burglars target protected nature reserve between Leeds and Castleford

A protected nature reserve between Leeds and Castleford was targeted by burglars who stole electrical goods and damaged the outbuildings.
A murmuration of starlings flying over the Coal Tips of Fairburn Ings RSPB reserve. Taken by James Hardisty.A murmuration of starlings flying over the Coal Tips of Fairburn Ings RSPB reserve. Taken by James Hardisty.
A murmuration of starlings flying over the Coal Tips of Fairburn Ings RSPB reserve. Taken by James Hardisty.

Suspects forced open two buildings at RSPB Fairburn Ings Nature Reserve, in Ledston, overnight between December 28 and December 29.

Several laptops and a TV were stolen from the site.

The suspects also damaged the buildings.

Conservationists at Fair Ings, which has recorded around 280 bird species, said it the incident was "not how they wanted to enter the new year."

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The charity workers said: "We are very sad to report that we had a break-in at Fairburn Ings on Saturday December 28.

"The loss of several laptops, a TV and damage to outbuildings is not how we wanted to enter the new year.

"As a charity we work hard to put our money into the conservation and management of the sites in our care and this incident is not only robbing the organisation but the wildlife we have on site.

"If anyone is offered similar items for sale please get in touch with us on 01977 628191, or contact the police.

"We wish you all a peaceful new year."

A West Yorkshire spokesperson confirmed that enquiries remain ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting crime reference 13190662864.