Caravans worth an estimated £150,000 have been stolen from a Hampshire farm.

The vehicles were being stored at Castle Lane Farm in North Baddesley and belonged to individuals and families across Hampshire.

Eight vanished during an elaborate raid overnight on Wednesday in which intruders cut through security fences and even filled in a ditch at the farm.

Police investigating the break-in believe it is linked with an earlier theft from the site over the Easter weekend, in which two caravans were taken.

Yesterday farm owner Ted Grover was busy contacting the devastated caravan owners to break the news about the thefts.

Many of the vehicles had their own personalised fittings and were packed with possessions such as televisions, bedding, clothing and barbecue equipment.

Police said the main raid happened between 8pm on Wednesday and 10am yesterday, when it was discovered by farm staff.

The intruders targeted the secluded farm via Misselbrook Lane, cutting through a chain and gate before moving a huge metal post surrounded with concrete.

Once near the site, the determined thieves cut through a wire fence and moved a heavy agricultural roller before filling in a moat-like ditch around the caravans and towing eight away.

Today PC Neil Piper, of Romsey police, leading the investigation, said: "Whoever has done this has gone to an awful lot of trouble and would presumably have been at the scene some time.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area, such as a convoy of caravans heading anywhere in the North Baddesley, Southampton or Eastleigh area."

Police said a £15,500 Abbey Vogue caravan was thought to be typical of the models stolen.

Any information to PC Piper on 0845 045 4545, or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.