A Honda quad bike which was stolen from a premises in Co. Laois earlier this week has been recovered, An Garda Síochána has confirmed.

The machine in question is believed to have been stolen in the early hours of this morning (Thursday, July 29) from a yard in Ballyfin, in the Mountrath area of the county.

In an appeal for details in relation to the crime, Gardaí based in the Laois/Offaly region said:

Asking members of the public to pass on details of the crime, Gardaí added:

"If you have any information regarding the theft, please contact Portlaoise Garda Station on: 057-8674100 and quote PID 19801884."

In an update yesterday evening, local Gardaí confirmed that the quad has been recovered with investigations still ongoing, stating:

"Thank you to all for sharing.

In other rural crime related news, there has been a “slight increase” in shed and outhouse thefts in the Antrim area of Northern Ireland, according to local law enforcement.

Members of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) based in the Antrim district issued a short statement on the matter this morning (Wednesday, July 28), offering “simple tips” to help prevent such thefts.

The PSNI officers said: “There has been a slight increase in shed and outhouse thefts within the district.

“You can help us by taking practical steps to protect your home and your family. We would advise all householders to review their security and increase their vigilance.”