In a distressing incident in Nynehead, Somerset, Chris Potter, an avid ferret racer and breeder, discovered that 32 of his prized ferrets were stolen from an outbuilding on his family’s property. Chris, who cares for 39 ferrets used in racing and shows, returned home from work to find the hutch broken into and the majority of his animals missing.
“As soon as I got home, I went straight to check on the ferrets,” Chris recounts. “I found all the hatches open and 32 ferrets gone, only seven left behind—likely because my dog’s barking scared the thieves off.”
The theft has been reported to Avon and Somerset Police, who are actively investigating the case. Chris has stepped forward with a £500 reward for anyone who helps recover his animals, which he affectionately trains and showcases in events that raise funds for charity.
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“These ferrets mean a lot to me—they’re unique in color and temperament, not like others you typically see,” Chris explains. “They’ve helped me raise hundreds of pounds for charitable causes through races and shows.”
Chris suspects the ferrets remain somewhere in the South West and could be offered for sale. He urges anyone with information or sightings to contact him directly at 01823 662126.
The police confirmed receiving the theft report shortly after 6 pm on January 21. The break-in is believed to have occurred between 6 pm on January 20 and 5:15 pm the following day. They encourage anyone with relevant information or with footage from CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam cameras to call 101, referencing case number 5226019120.