Heartless thieves steal thousands of pounds of equipment from local businessman

Heartless thieves broke into the garage of local businessman Gary Livesey and stole £5,000 pounds worth of gardening equipment.

Gary and his wife Lynda woke on Monday (23 December) to find that theft had taken place. Equipment including strimmers, chainsaws and industrial equipment had been stolen.

Lynda’s sister, Shirley Barron said: “They have cut the bolts on the garage to get in and taken the equipment and it’s not like its light equipment. It would have taken a few people to do this.”

The theft happened at the couple’s home on Heywood Road, Castleton and brings another devastating blow to the couple: their son suddenly died in February and Lynda’s mother passed away in April of this year.

“This is the last thing that they need. It has been a hard year for them and they do not need this as well,” added Shirley.

Gary is the owner of Premier Garden Services in Rochdale. Premier Garden Services provides a bespoke gardening service to businesses throughout the year.

Gary’s family now feel that this robbery could damage the business.

Shirley said: “He can’t work now and if he can’t do the job then people will drop him and it’s not his fault. I am very worried for him. He works so hard and works seven days a week and this could really harm him.”

Police confirmed the theft and added: “It is believed that the burglary happened between 11pm and 6am on Sunday 22 December. Enquiries are on going and anyone with information should get in touch.”

Shirley is worried that the culprits wont be caught. She said: “What chance do the police have? Something similar happened to my husband and the police knew who did it but couldn’t catch them.”