POLICE are appealing for information about the theft of eight rare breed chickens from a farm near Redditch.

The eight brown and gold Welsummer chickens - three cockerels and five hens - had been bred for competition.

They were taken from pens in unlocked sheds at Park Hall Farm, Hanbury, sometime between midnight and 6am today.

They had been bred by their owner, and included an award-winning cockerel which was worth up to £100.

It is believed the stolen chickens were specially selected by the offenders, who appeared to know what they were looking for.

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact West Mercia Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting 172-s-311213 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.