A PAIR of 90-year-old tortoises named Fred and Frieda have been stolen from a popular Feltham tourist attraction.

The couple, who have been 'together' all their lives, were snatched from the Hounslow Urban Farm, Faggs Road, on Monday night by thieves who broke into the stable where they sleep.

The animals, who have just come out of hibernation, were given to the farm by an elderly Ashford couple who were worried about what would happen to the animals if they were unable to care for them one day.

Farm manager Mary Wilks said: "I am very concerned about the well-being of Fred and Frieda. When tortoises come out of hibernation they need a lot of care and attention. It is important that they are kept at the right temperature and get enough food so their energy levels are maintained. Fred and Frieda have been together all their lives and need to be kept together for their well being.

"They were given to us by the elderly couple who wanted them to be well looked after in a safe place and now this has happened."

Staff noticed that a stable door was open when they came into work on Tuesday morning and were dismayed to find the farm's oldest attractions had been taken along with their heat lamp.

It is estimated they may be worth between £400 and £500 each.

Miss Wilks is appealing to anyone with information to contact her, saying callers do not need to leave any personal details.

The crime has been reported to the police.

Miss Wilks said: "I am just so disappointed, they were lovely animals, my personal favourites. To not know where they are, if they are being looked after properly, or if they are even together still is very upsetting. They were very well cared for here."

Miss Wilks said Frieda's shell is about 30cms in length, and Fred is about half the size, at 15cms.

Anyone with information can contact Miss Wilks on 07525 197856.

A police spokesman said: "We can confirm we are investigating a burglary at a farm in Faggs Road as some time overnight on Monday 28 March. During the burglary two tortoises and lighting equipment were stolen."

Acting Detective Sergeant Ross Foxwell, Metropolitan Police Service said: "I am sure that there must be people who know who have stolen these tortoises. I am appealing to anyone who knows where these tortoises are to contact police so that they can be returned to the farm for the enjoyment of local children."

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