Cast iron stag stolen

Thieves snatch cast iron stag from grounds of Hurst Community College, Baughurst

POLICE have warned people to keep garden ornaments safe, after thieves recently snatched a cast iron stag from the grounds of the Hurst Community College, in Baughurst.

According to Hampshire police, some time between midnight on Sunday, May 1 and 9am on Thursday, May 5, the cast iron ornament – which is about 5ft in height and 3ft in length – was taken from the school in Brimpton Road.

It is believed this theft may be linked to a similar incident in which an iron Heron garden ornament was stolen from the garden of a house in Baughurst Road, sometime between 5pm on Saturday, April 30 and 5pm on Sunday, May 1.

Pc Miriam Edwards said: “Thefts of metal garden ornaments appear to be on the increase. Anyone with such items should be aware of this and are encouraged to report any similar incidents to us.

“We would also recommend that people keep photos and details of the items to pass on to us if they are stolen.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Pc Edwards at Basingstoke police station on 101 or via www.hampshire.police.uk/internet/contact/message_officer.htm

Alternatively call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.