THE owners of an £80,000 horsebox-lorry have been left devastated after it was stolen.

The 27ft-long lorry belonging to Trevor Davis and partner Carolyn Robertson was kept overnight in Goldwell Lane, Great Chart, near Ashford.

It was behind padlocked gates, not visible from the road and was fitted with an immobiliser. Mr Davis said: "They obviously knew it was there. It's a devastating blow and we are both very angry."

The top-of-the-range silver Whittaker lorry with its distinctive dark blue flash patterns on the side and tailgate, had been specially modified to include a lightweight ramp. It contained £2,000 of equipment.

Miss Robertson, who owns three horses, is a novice eventer and show jumper, but her plans for the season are now on hold.

Stolen between midnight and 8am last Wednesday, the couple, from Smarden, are offering a reward for its return. Call them on 07801 502474.

UK ports have been alerted and Ashford police are asking for anyone with information to call them on 01233 611055.