Allotment holders in Tring, Hertfordshire, have begun conducting night patrols after a series of thefts targeting their crops, with onions being the primary item stolen. Since early September, more than ten incidents have been reported at the 153-plot site, where multiple growers have experienced loss or damage to their produce.

Signs posted around the allotment warn visitors that “thieves are about,” noting that up to 50 onions have been taken so far. While onions appear to be the main target, other crops such as peppers, tomatoes, and corn have also reportedly been stolen. One allotment tenant, Paul Forster, shared images online showing the gaps left in his red onion beds, expressing frustration given the effort he put into maintaining them through recent drought conditions.

In response to the ongoing thefts, a group of allotment holders has organized night watches, with at least four individuals taking shifts to patrol the site after dark in hopes of catching the culprit. One of the patrollers, aged 56, stated the intention is to document any suspicious activity through photographs and subsequently report it to the police. The group emphasized their preference to avoid direct confrontation with the suspected thief.

The allotments, which rent for £60 annually per plot and are managed by Tring Town Council, are also exploring additional security measures. Council representatives have indicated that installing CCTV cameras is under consideration, though there are concerns that thieves might target and steal the surveillance equipment itself.

Local authorities have yet to confirm any arrests related to the thefts, and no further details have been disclosed regarding the identity of the individual or individuals responsible. Meanwhile, the allotment community remains vigilant, hoping that increased monitoring will deter further incidents.