A REWARD of up to £1,000 is being offered after 15 shotguns and three rifles were stolen from a business in Hambridge.

Police say the firearms were taken during a break-in at Rifleman Firearms but added that no ammunition was stolen.

Investigating officer Det Con Andrew Tearle said he understood this incident could cause concern in the area but wanted to reassure people not to be alarmed.

He added: “We're carrying out a thorough and detailed investigation and have a number of potential leads to pursue.

“We'll be reviewing CCTV footage as part of the investigation and we've been speaking with registered dealers nationally to ensure they're aware of the incident.

“I would like to speak to anyone who has information on this burglary or details of who may be involved.”

Information only just released by the police show the incident happened at around 10.30pm on Tuesday, August 26, at the business, which is based at Bowdens Farm in Hambridge.

The shotguns were 12-gauge and the rifles were a .338 caliber and a .308 caliber.

A reward of up to £1,000 being offered by the independent Crimestoppers charity for information given to them via their telephone number 0800 555 111, which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible.

Police want to know if anyone saw suspicious people or vehicles around the premises at the time of the incident or the days leading up to it, or if anyone has recently acquired one of the firearms.

Alternatively if you have information and want to speak to the police, please call Det Con Andrew Tearle at Yeovil CID via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 101, quoting reference 88233/14.

A spokesman from Rifleman Firearms did not wish to comment while the police are continuing their investigation.