Burglary at Havant country park sparks new security measures to deter thieves

The break-in at Staunton Country Park saw entry forced through the stable block and the Victorian Coach House before copper piping and radiators were stolen. The value of the items is not known.

Havant councillor Jackie Branson said there had been two break-ins during a recent meeting but police have since said there was just one raid.

‘It is believed that the burglary took place between 4pm on Friday January 31 and 8.30am on Monday February 3,’ a police spokeswoman said.

But police were only told about the incident on February 3 at 9.38am.

The spokeswoman added: ‘Entry was forced into both the Stable Block and the Victorian Coach House, a quantity of copper piping and radiators were stolen.’

The Victorian Coach House was recently converted into a modern, multi-purpose visitor centre with refreshment facilities and plant sales.

Following the burglary, Hampshire County Council has moved to deter further attacks on the site.

Councillor Seán Woodward, executive member for recreation and heritage at the county council, said: ‘In response to individuals illegally entering Staunton Country Park recently, we have extended CCTV surveillance to cover additional buildings in the parkland as well as introducing security measures outside visitor hours.

‘We hope that these proactive steps will deter such behaviour in the future.’

Anyone with information can call police on 101 and quote reference number 44200042137.