POLICE are appealing for witnesses after vandals struck a North Ayrshire windfarm causing damage in the region of £30,000.

Early on Saturday morning, officers received information that machinery had been stolen from the Dalry Community Wind Farm.

It was also reported that there had been vandalism to several buildings and equipment, with graffiti also being sprayed.

Police were called to the scene, just outside the town of Dalry, around 7am where they were met with the destruction of a large crane and a wind turbine.

The cost of repairs is estimated to be around £30,000 with a further £4,000 worth of property and machinery stolen from the site.

Inspector Colin Convery said: “The motive for this attack of vandalism is unclear and whoever targeted this site was intent on causing as much destruction as possible with no thought as to how much damage was done or how much it would cost to repair.

“The wind farm is fairly rural but it’s possible people in the local area may have heard or seen something.

“I am appealing to them to get in touch with us with any information they may have, no matter how insignificant it may seem.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Irvine Police Office on 101. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be passed on anonymously.

MSP Kenny Gibson told the Herald this week: “Inspector Convery is absolutely right – whilst the reasons for this attack can be speculated at, they will only be known if the culprits are caught.

“If anyone has any information, I urge them to contact the police or Crimestoppers in confidence.”