THE owner of a popular community farm in Bury says he is struggling to continue after thieves struck for the second time in three weeks.

In the latest incident, which happened over the weekend, 10 of the 15 hens at the Pimhole Community Farm were stolen.

Earlier this month, thieves took 25 racing pigeons, worth £1,000. Ten of the birds, which had their wings clipped, were later recovered.

Mr Andrews, aged 74, who runs the two-and-a-half acre farm in School Street, said: “The theft happened sometime between Saturday night and Sunday morning.

“The hens were in sheds, which are unlocked in case of an emergency.” “ He said: “It’s just sickening and I’m absolutely gutted. It doesn’t really give me any heart to go on.

“What are these people going to do next? It’s just horrible and I can’t believe what these people are doing to us. Why won’t they leave us alone?”

Mr Andrews has owned the farm for 30 years, but only opened it to the community in 2004.

Two years ago, thieves stole pigeons, hens, doves and rabbits in three raids within just six days.

Pimhole Community Farm works with young offenders and those on community service, as well as with schools.

Anyone with information about the theft of the hens can ring police on 101 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.