THE owners of a Gwent stable who were left devastated when thieves took £7,000 worth of equipment received donations from generous Argus readers.

Burglars struck again at the site days later, though this time nothing was taken.

Tracy and Phil Morris bought their eight acres of land in Henllys, Cwmbran, last year with the vision of sharing their love of horse riding with family and friends.

But last week, thieves broke in and took bridles and saddles worth £7,000, belonging to those family and friends.

Heartbroken Mrs Morris, 40, from Springvale, told the Argus a family dream had been "shattered".

After the story was covered by the paper, generous readers donated bridles and a saddle.

"I just want to thank those who donated the equipment - it's really generous, and shows we still have community spirit out there," said Mrs Morris.

"The storage unit was broken into again on Friday, but luckily we had nothing in it this time. I just can't believe it could happen again, but there is no way anything will be kept in there anymore."

According to Mrs Morris some of the saddles which were stolen are worth up to £1,000 each.

The first incident happened on Monday afternoon on the Morris's land - fields off Craig-Ceiliog Lane, between Bettws and Henllys.

PC Darrell Dewar, crime and disorder reduction officer for Cwmbran, said the burglary was "obviously premeditated".

"We are appealing for witnesses. If anyone did see anything suspicious they need to contact us as soon as possible.

"We understand farms in the surrounding area are now forming a Neighbourhood Watch group in a bid to stop this happening in the future," he said.