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Anglo-Saxon stone sculpture stolen from church

The stolen stone sculpture. Credit: North Yorkshire Police

Thieves have stolen unique stone artefact, dating back 1,200 years, from a church in Hovingham, near Malton, North Yorkshire.

Some time between 23 May and 6 June 2015, offenders entered All Saints Church in Hovingham and stole a carved stone which was on display in the recess of a window.

The statue, originally part of a stone cross, dates from the late eighth or early ninth century, and is particularly notable for its ornate and accomplished carving.

It is very heavy and will have required a vehicle to remove it.

Experts have described the stolen sculpture as unique in its form, layout and the quality of its carving. We are making extensive enquiries to return this important historic artefact to its rightful location, and I would urge anyone who knows its whereabouts to get in touch straight away.”

– PC Nick Durkin, North Yorkshire Police