[MSN] Police have launched an appeal after rare antiques, worth more than U.K.Pounds 10, 000, were stolen from an shop in Preston.

[Museum Security Network Mailing list]

Man sought following rare antiques theft

Photo:
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Police have launched an appeal after rare antiques, worth more than £10,000,
were stolen from an shop in Preston.

The antiques were stolen from a display cabinet at the Preston Antique
Centre, New Hall Lane, between September 6 and 13 last year.

Police have now released a still photo from CCTV in the centre which
captures a man they believe may be able to help with their inquiries.

PC Andrew Crook said: "This is a high value theft of some distinctive and
unique items.

"I am appealing to anybody who works in the antiques industry to be vigilant
and to report anything suspicious.

"If anybody has knowledge of the whereabouts of these items, or believes
they may have seen items similar to these over recent months, I would
encourage them to make contact with police at the earliest opportunity.

"We are particularly keen to speak to the male seen in this CCTV image, and
are seeking information as to his identity."

Police are asking people to report any suspicious behaviour and to be
vigilant and to look out for the items which are as folows.

A European ivory figure of a girl and flowers approximately 12 - 14 inches
tall.

The figure was made in Dieppe, circa 1860 and is valued at around £6250; A
pair of Art Nouveau ivory elephants made in France circa 1890 which are
approximately 5 inches tall with a value of around £3000.

An Ormolu mounted and mother of pearl Etui sewing case, approximately 4
inches long made by the Palais Royale factory in France.

This is circa 1800 and its value is around £650.

A jewel encrusted satin birch snuff box, around 3 inches in diameter.

The box was made in Russia circa 1850 with a value of around £150.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Preston police on 203203 or
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

11:23am Monday 7th January 2008

By Andrew Greaves

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