Police investigate boxing theft
Police are appealing for information following the theft of boxing equipment in Great Ayton.
It was stolen between 8.30am and 10am on Saturday 2 June 2012, from a car park next to the working men's club on Whinstone View in the village.
A lorry, with a crane attached, lifted a blue 20ft container, with the code PSU 3316 in white on the side, onto its trailer. It is believed it then drove off along Newton Road, heading along either the A173 towards Guisborough or the A172 towards Middlesbrough.
The container held boxing equipment, mainly of the Pro Box brand, including a 16 foot boxing ring, sparring gloves and head guards, punch bags, skipping ropes and floor mats. The value of the equipment is approximately £2,600.
The stolen equipment, used at a weekly boxing club for young people, was funded by a partnership including Stokesley Police Safer Neighbourhood Team, Broadacres Housing Association, Hambleton 4 Youth and used the facilities of at Great Ayton Working Men's Club.
The only description of the man driving the lorry, who was the only person in the vehicle, is that he is middle aged.
Sergeant Simon Wilson, of Stokesley Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "The club was formed through local partnership work to create a diversionary activity, promoting discipline and fitness for the local young people. The intention is to steer the participants away from crime and anti-social behaviour.
"Since its launch the has been warmly received by the community who have already seen the benefits it has brought.
"It is extremely disappointing and frustrating for all that this theft has effectively stopped this activity only weeks after it had begun.
Sgt Wilson added: "I urge anyone who can help to identify the thief to contact North Yorkshire Police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible."
Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is asked to contact on 101, press option 2 and ask for Alistair Gill.
Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 12120088602.
9.37am - 7 June 2012
