A goat, her three kids, and a two-day-old calf have been stolen from a farm.

Thieves broke into a farm building in Kings Langley between 10.30pm on Thursday and 9am the following morning and a Belgian Blue Cross calf, a nanny goat and three kids were taken.

The mother had just had triplets and her owners say she was eating extra food to maintain her milk, and they are concerned those who who have taken her will not know this.

The theft has left a family heartbroken.

Police are appealing for anyone who may recognise the stolen livestock or have any information about the theft to come forward.

A social media appeal has also racked up more than 11,000 shares.

Dacorum Special Inspector Steve Meredith said: “We take reports of this nature very seriously and are concerned for the welfare of these animals, due to their young age. Understandably we’re keen to trace them and get them back to the farm as quickly as possible.

“I am appealing for anyone who may know the whereabouts of these animals, or who may have witnessed suspicious activity around farm buildings in the area to please get in touch straightaway.”

National Farmers’ Union (NFU) County Adviser Rosalind David said: “We share the police’s concern about the welfare of these young animals and hope they can be found quickly. This is an upsetting incident for the farmer and we would urge anyone with information to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/52160/18.

This is not the first report of animals being stolen from farms in the area.

Last month, pygmy goats were stolen from Langleybury Chiildren’s Farm, near Hunton Bridge, as well as from a pub in Rickmansworth.