POLICE looking into the theft of a dozen cows from a Cumbria farm have called off the investigation after the animals were found in a nearby field.

Officers were first alerted to the alleged theft of cattle belonging to a farmer based in Allithwaite on July 14.

The livestock, valued at £10,600, were reported taken from a field near to the A590 at High Newton.

But the cows were found safe and well in a nearby field earlier this week.

A Cumbria Police spokesman said: "We are pleased to inform you that the cattle have been located nearby in circumstances which suggest they were not stolen."