Moray farmer Ian Forsyth (18) reunited with stolen flock of sheep

A MORAY farmer has been reunited with his flock of sheep after they were stolen last week.

Ian Forsyth’s flock, consisting of 11 Jacob ewe lambs, one Jacob ewe and one Suffolk ewe lamb, disappeared from the rented field they were being kept in near Maggieknockater between 2pm on Tuesday, July 16 and 9am on Wednesday, July 17.

The 18-year-old, who stays near Mulben, said he was “heartbroken” after discovering that the sheep had been taken, adding: “Every spare penny I’ve got goes into my livestock.

“I care more about my sheep than I do myself.”

A public appeal for information to help trace the flock was made and police said that they were making enquiries regarding the incident.

However, the family confirmed on social media on July 20 that the sheep have been found after the culprits left them on a neighbour’s farm through the night.

Ian said: “All I’ve really got to say is words can’t describe the way I’m feeling to have my girls back where they belong.

“I’m keen to draw a line under this horrible situation now but would like to extend a thank you to Police Scotland and all my family, friends and everyone else who has liked and shared to help trace the whereabouts of my sheep and I am grateful that whoever took them did the right thing in the end.

“I also encourage all farmers to take precautions to keep their livestock, machinery and land safe.”