Historical items worth millions stolen from Arundel Castle
The items were taken by force on Friday night
Gold and silver items worth more than £1 million have been stolen from Arundel Castle.
A burglar alarm was sounded at around 10.30pm on Friday (21 May) and police arrived on the scene a short time after.
Items stolen include the Gold Roasary Beads carried by Mary Queen of Scots at her execution in 1587, which holds great historical significance.
A 4x4 saloon was found abandoned and on fire nearby in Barlavington not long after the burglary. Police are currently examining it to see whether it's connected to the incident.
A spokesman for Arundel Castle Trustees said; “The stolen items have significant monetary value, but as unique artefacts of the Duke of Norfolk’s collection have immeasurably greater and priceless historical importance. We therefore urge anyone with information to come forward to the police to assist them in returning these treasures back where they belong.”
Detective Constable Molly O'Malley of Chichester CID said; "If you were in Arundel on Friday evening and saw any suspicious activity around the area of the Castle, please contact us either online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Deuce.
"In addition, the castle only re-opened to visitors on Tuesday 18 May so if you were visiting during the past few days do you on reflection recall anyone behaving at all suspiciously?
"If you are offered or hear of anyone offering for sale any of the items stolen, we would also like to hear from you.