Love Lane allotments were targeted by thieves last week with 10 sheds being broken into on the night of Thursday, February 20. They got away with a variety of tools and equipment but must have been disturbed as many tools were found stacked by the gate to Tillingham Avenue awaiting collection.
This follows on from a break in 10 days previously when 14 sheds were either broken into or attempts were made. It is not clear whether the thieves had a key to the allotments. While a padlock was missing from the Tillingham Avenue gate, a hole had been made in the fence facing Love Lane.
The police have visited and advised that this is one of a spate of break-ins on allotment sites across Rother in recent months, with sites in Bexhill and Northiam also having been targeted.
Nigel Jennings, chair of the Rye Allotments Association said: “This is deeply upsetting to me and all those who have had their sheds raided. It is not just the value of what has been taken. Many tools have been handed down by relatives and had great sentimental value.
“Some plot-holders will find it difficult to replace tools and may consider giving up their plots. As an association we will try to help those in need so that this will not happen.
“The Love Lane allotments are managed by Rye Amenity CIC who are responsible for the security of the site and we will be liaising with them over the coming weeks on ways that security can be improved.”
The Rye Allotments Association is launching an appeal for any surplus gardening tools that Rye News readers may have and are willing to donate to those who have been victims of these thefts. If you would like to donate please contact Nigel Jennings, 16 Love Lane, Rye TN31 7NE. Email: nigel_jennings@yahoo.com or telephone 01797 226603.
Source: Nigel Jennings
Image Credits: John Minter .