The thefts in September and October have ranged from horse blankets to horse trailers, taken from fields, stables, and other livery premises.

One theft at Two Dales involved a Rutland green horsebox worth �3,000.

Horsewatch is advising owners to take equipment home with them if possible and not to leave saddles and bridles and other tack in outbuildings.

Postcode protected

Another incident in Tibshelf saw seven saddles, four brides and other equipment worth over �2,500 stolen.

Other offences have taken place in Coal Aston, Hasland, Ashgate, Eastmoor and Unstone.

Police have recommended that lorries should be immobilised and trailers locked with clamps and hitch locks.

Saddles can have postcodes stamped into the leather and rugs can be postcoded with permanent marker pens.