A FARMER has hit out a “low life” burglars who cut their way into a historic barn before stealing thousands of pounds worth of tools.

John Acton, who has run Wrabness Hall Farm in Church Road, Wrabness, for more than 30 years, said the Grade II listed 18th century threshing barn was targeted during a night raid.

The barn is currently being redeveloped as a learning centre for sustainable living, as well as an estate office and public convenience.

“It’s the first time we have had a burglary here,” he said.

“These people are lowlifes. They caused some damage getting in, but I’m more concerned about the tools and equipment they took and which will all need to be replaced.

“They broke into the barn and took tools, including a welder. They must have been worth a couple of thousand pounds. We have been using the tools to renovate the barns.

“They used a bolt cutter on one lock and a grinder on another.

“We believe they used a blue transit van and we’ve given the registration to the police.”

Mr Acton added concerns have been raised in the village following a number of reported break-ins last year.

“There have been quite a lot of incidents in the area,” he added.

“We’ll be putting pallets of bricks in the way of the barn now and will also be installing CCTV and alarms systems as part of the new development.”

Harry Jones, chairman of Wrabness Parish Council and the village’s Neighbourhood Watch group, said: “There were a number of thefts from sheds and the playing fields as well as outboard motors from boats last year. So far it has been much quieter this year.”

It is believed the break-in at Wrabness Hall Farm, which was discovered by a farm worker, took place on Sunday night or in the early hours on Monday. Witnesses should call Essex Police on 101.