When a range of farm buildings came on the market this month no one expected any trouble.

Close to local amenities and the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, it was perfect for conversion into a delightful family home.

The property, which comprises a horseshoe shaped terrace of stables and barns around an open courtyard, was expected to be snapped up in double quick time.

But someone appears to have other ideas.

The farm buildings, near Catterick Garrison, are due to be auctioned on March 4 but, in the six weeks since they were first advertised, four sets of sale boards have gone missing from outside.

The strange thefts have left chartered surveyors, Colliers CRE baffled.

"We can only assume the culprit has their heart set on the property and is keen that potential rivals don't find out about the sale," said spokesman Simon Riggall.

Closed circuit television cameras erected as part of the garrison's security network are now trained on the property.

"Hopefully, the fifth set of boards will stay in place until the auction on March 4," added Mr Riggall.