COPS are probing a major break-in at a sewage works in Mauchline - after crooks nicked £11,000 worth of goods The incident at the Mauchline Sewage Works has been described as a massive 'hassle’ by site owners Laing O’Rourke Scotland Ltd who were appalled by the crime.

Items stolen included a generator worth £4,000, a concrete poker costing £1200 and a host of other high-value gear.

Speaking to the Chronicle this week, site boss Anthony Green said: “It certainly came as quite of surprise when we noticed the stuff had gone missing.

“Quite frankly it’s a pain for us as well as being a real hassle.

“The lock is very difficult to break but they’ve managed to get a bar in behind it to break it. They’ve taken a lot of equipment but surprisingly left a couple of things with a high value. Perhaps they didn’t know what they were which is a blessing for us.

“We’d just appeal to anyone who gets offered an unusual item to come forward or tell the police.” The theft is likely to have been carried out by a small gang and took place after workers left at Friday, July 11 from 3.30pm and when they returned at 6am on Tuesday morning.

A police spokesperson said: “We are appealing for witnesses or information after a container was broken into and a large quantity of tools were stolen at the Mauchline Sewage Works in Barskimming Road, Mauchline between 3.30pm on July 11 and 6am on July 14.

“Please contact PC Boyd at Cumnock Police Office on 101 if you have any information.

“Perhaps you have been offered something that appears unusual. If so, then get in touch with us immediately.”