THIEVES who went on to farmland to steal feed and equipment have led to fears they may have spread foot-and-mouth disease on to the premises.
Detectives say the theft has added strain to the Darlington farmer's already stressful life when more and more properties in the surrounding area are confirmed as having the disease.
The theft happened at Farncombe Farm, Staindrop Road, on the outskirts of the town, between 9pm on Monday and 7.30am on Tuesday.
Vets have been informed and the situation is being monitored.
Detective Sergeant Alec Francis said: "His farm does not have foot-and-mouth, but there are farms in the surrounding area that do.
"He has expressed concern that the disease could have been brought on to the farm."
The land has horses and cattle, and there are boarding kennels on the site.
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