A group of allotment holders, fed up with constantly having their equipment and produce stolen has taken it upon themselves to catch the culprits.

Plot holders at the Spa Hill allotment site have begun a night watch to try and catch thieves who have broken into more than 100 sheds on the 300-strong allotment plot.

Plot holder Sarah Newton, 36, said: “We know from sensors the criminals are breaking in after 2.30am.

“They are going through as many of the sheds in a night as they can, sometimes repeating break-ins, and looking for petrol and electrical powered goods.

“Many of our allotment holders are elderly and will find it difficult to replace this equipment.”

The site, which holds annual open days, hosts monthly volunteer days and has given work to young offenders has been raided on a weekly basis since August.

The garden designer added: “A few brave allotment holders have now taken it upon themselves to do a night watch in an effort to scare away the robbers and maybe get some proof of their identity.

“This is potentially dangerous and we do not have the jurisdiction to take necessary action and arrest these people safely with the appropriately trained procedures to ensure proof of their actions.

“The current crime wave is creating an air of despondency.

"The police have not been rallied around successfully as yet and the safer neighbourhood’s team have also been very absent."

Councillor Pat Ryan said: “Here we have an exceptional example of perhaps the best run allotment in the area, if not London.

“They certainly look after the place well and it is a real hub of the local community. I am going to do everything I possibly can to ensure they can operate in a safe and fair environment."

Croydon police have been contacted for comment.

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