Appeal for return of £5k props after younsters steal equipment from Meadows fairground ride

• Keith Taylor says he ismoreconcerned with getting the props back than catching the thieves

But there were a few unwelcome bumps in the night when a group of youngsters boarded a brand new ride on the Meadows and stole 5,000 worth of equipment.

Included in their haul were several expensive costumes, a skeleton, spooky masks and a giant spider.

The fairground ride, which has a Pirates of the Caribbean theme, was on site for the Meadows Festival this weekend, but is now short of ten pieces of special equipment.

Keith Taylor, who heads the fair at the festival, said it was the first time in the event's history that there had been a large-scale theft.

He said: "It's a shame because this is a real community festival, and we're here to entertain.

"The ghost train was new and we'd bought a lot of the special effects from Orlando, in America. An expensive costume, a big fibreglass spider and a giant mask of Davey Jones, like the character in the film, have all gone.

"We don't think the theft was meant to be malicious. It was probably a few lads who'd had a bit too much booze and thought it would be a laugh to nick them. I doubt they realise how much the costumes and props are worth."

Mr Taylor, from Craigmillar, said that he would be willing to offer a reward to anybody who would bring the items back to the fairground following Tuesday night's theft.

He said: "It sounds quite bizarre and funny, but it has caused a bit of a problem. We don't mind if they leave the things by the train in the middle of the night, the important thing is we want them back. We're not looking to prosecute anyone, just to have a fun festival.

"My father and grandfather were founders of the event 35 years ago, and now my sons and grandsons are helping out on the Crazy Frog Ride and waltzers. It's a festival for locals and we don't want to sour it with a theft."

Derek Charles, who owns the ghost train, said the ride had cost more than 150,000 to buy and had a lot of top-of-the-range effects. He said: "Luckily I had bought some replacements for some of the models and masks, but there's no way the giant spider can be made again in time. They say it'll take weeks.

"Clearly some kids just thought they'd go on the rampage, pinch some prized possessions and have a giggle.

"They forced the door open and were seen running off by on-site security at around 4am. I'm a bit angry and I don't want to paint a black picture of events, but it has put a bit of a damper on things. Hopefully those responsible will see our appeal."

THE Meadows Festival, which is now in its 35th year, is run entirely by volunteers and relies on donations from the public.

This year's event, running tomorrow and Sunday, will offer music, stalls and entertainment. Entry is free.

Headlining music acts include local bands Banana Sessions, who have built up a reputation for their quirky cover versions, and the Big Fat Panda, a wild, bouncy ska act.

There will also be plenty of activities for children and adults, including a bicycle-powered cinema, face painting, games, food stalls and an art tent.

Organiser Fred Mackintosh said it was a festival for the community, run by the community. He said: "It's something that locals have kept up for years, and has been running since 1974. About 30 volunteers have offered to run the festival, and we're had lots of donations. It is also funded by the community council.

"There will loads of activities including a seven-a-side football competition for primary pupils and an art project by students where the displays are made out of trash.

"For the first time Gorgie Farm will also bring their portable petting zoo. As usual we're expecting it to inspire real community spirit."