Stolen statue

10:15am Thursday 8th May 2008

A SUBSTANTIAL reward has been offered for the safe return of a treasured family statue stolen from a property in Clent.

The 25-inch high, white marble statue of a child, probably Cupid, on a square base, is believed to be worth more than £2,000.

Charles Young, owner of the statue, said it had great sentimental value following his mother's death at the end of last year.

It had been in her possession for at least 40 years, and was the focal point of her garden.

It was stolen between Thursday, April 17 and Monday, April 21.

Mr Young said the late 19th century Italian statue was very heavy, and would have required more than one person to have removed it.

He has now offered a substantial reward for its safe return and information leading to arrest and conviction of the thieves.

He said: "I just don't want these criminals to get away with it," he added.

"Coming so soon after my mother's death this has been particularly upsetting."

Witnesses or anyone with information should call police on 08457 444 888 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.