THE future of a Redditch firm which employs 50 people will come under threat if it is targeted by thieves for the third time.

Up to £80,000 worth of fishing tackle has been stolen from Leeder in Padgetts Lane, South Moons Moat, on two separate occasions.

And now bosses are so concerned about the company's future, they have offered a reward of up to £1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the thieves.

Commercial director of the 10-year-old firm, Mark Smith, said: "The future of the business could be in doubt if this recent spate of thefts is not resolved.

"If it continues, it could bring everybody's jobs under threat."

Mr Smith believes the stolen equipment, which includes Garbolonio poles worth £1,500 each, is being sold in the Redditch area but at much lower prices.

He said: "We are prepared to offer a financial reward for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the thefts."

Pc Gerry Smith, of Redditch police, said: "Because of the large quantity of equipment which has been stolen, somebody in Redditch might have some information or someone might have been offered fishing equipment at cheap prices and we would like them to contact us."

Anyone who has any information about the thefts can call Redditch police on 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.