Police hunt 4x4 vandals who wreaked havoc on Teesdale farms

MINDLESS vandals have inflicted “horrendous” damage on a number of Teesdale farms.
The owner of a 4x4 is believed to have gouged out the tracks on Raby Estates land between Staindrop and Gainford by doing doughnuts and other vehicle stunts.
Two wheat fields near East Selaby and North Lodge were also marked, as well as land in front of Selaby Hall between 1pm and 1.30pm last Tuesday (January 17).
PC Dave Williamson said the damage was horrendous.
He added: “To go into somebody’s land and do this is mindless and appalling. It’s especially bad because it’s popular with dog walkers. It just destroys it for everybody.
“We’re appealing for witnesses and anyone who saw a 4x4 driving in that area to get in touch. We’re sure someone must have seen something.”
One farm resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said she was shocked to come home to the damage after less than an hour away.
She added: “I wish they would get stuck – it’s irritating because it just makes such a mess.
“When you have got a newly sown field these people want to come and make a mark on it. They have no regard for the fact that it’s someone’s livelihood. They just want to see how far they can push their cars.”
Police teams combed the scene last week taking samples from the tracks.
The disgruntled resident believed more gates would remedy the problem.
She added: “I have gates at the bottom of the road but I don’t always lock them.
“When the gamekeeper lived in the bottom cottage (near the A67) the gates used to be locked at night to stop joyriders coming through.”
Farmer Brian Lee revealed the joyriders had struck before. Mr Lee said: “It’s happened here before, from here to Darlington – what I have to say about them couldn’t be printed.”
A spokesperson for Raby Estates declined to comment while investigations are ongoing.
Call police on 101 if you have information to offer.