A LIFETIME’S collection of handwritten recipes has been stolen from a top North East baker.

Car thieves took Murray Rhind’s 1986 ex-Army Land Rover – and in the back of the car was the former Army chef’s irreplaceable collection of handwritten recipes and notes, gathered over years of travelling the world in the forces.

Murray, who is local chef David Kennedy‘s head baker, has pleaded for the return of his priceless notes.

The 57-year-old said: “All my equipment was in the back of that Land Rover. My books, my recipes, everything. They are really precious to me. I have had them since my Army days so I can’t replace them and I need them for my job.”

Murray was an Army chef for 26 years. He cooked during the Falklands War and nine tours of duty in Northern ireland.

He left the forces 14 years ago and later got a job at Vallum Farm in East Wallhouses, Northumberland, where he prepares artisan breads for David Kennedy‘s restaurant.

A police spokeswoman said: “Between 9.30pm on July 31, and 2.20am on August 1, a Land Rover was stolen from a driveway in Shibdon Road in Blaydon.

“Inquiries are ongoing.” Call Northumbria Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.