Man arrested over Arundel Castle burglary

Historical items worth more than £1million were stolen back in May

Author: Adam GoacherPublished 21st Sep 2021

A man has been arrested in connection with a burglary at Arundel Castle earlier this year.

The man, who's aged 45, was arrested at an address in Worcestershire this morning (Tuesday 21 September) in a joint operation involving Sussex Police, Gloucestershire Constabulary, West Mercia Police and Thames Valley Police.

A collection of historical items, deemed irreplaceable, was stolen from the castle on the night of the 21st of May.

Value at over £1million, the collection included;

  • Mary Queen of Scots Rosary Beads;
  • Seven gold / silver-gilt coronation cups (George II, George III, George IV, William IV, George V, George VI and Elizabeth II);
  • Gold Earl Marshal’s baton;
  • Gold and enamel baton;
  • Other miscellaneous items including 10 silver-gilt Apostle Spoons, a silver-gilt casket with hunting and fishing scenes, and a silver-gilt mug.

Detective Inspector Alan Pack of Sussex Police said; "Our investigation into the Arundel Castle burglary remains live and this action marks a significant step in our enquiries.

"I would encourage anyone with further information about this burglary to contact us, and also remind people that the insurers have offered a substantial reward should any of the property be recovered intact. You can also contact us either online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Deuce.

“We are very grateful for the co-operation of West Mercia, Gloucestershire and Thames Valley Police whose assistance demonstrates how together we will take action to seek to disrupt criminality of all kinds."

These ladders were used by thieves to gain access to the dining room area of the castle during the burglary

In June a reward was offered on the basis that any items stolen are returned in their original, undamaged, condition, subject to specific conditions, and anyone with information is asked to email info@quadraclaims.co.uk or phone 0161 838 6600.

You can hear all the latest news on the hour, every hour.