On this day 1895: Original FA Cup stolen from Birmingham

The original FA Cup trophy was stolen from a Birmingham shop window on this day in 1895, where it had been on display courtesy of competition holders Aston Villa.

After beating local rivals West Bromwich Albion 1-0 the trophy was brought to town for proud fans to view, but while on display at a sports shop in Aston, the cup was stolen without a trace.

The original trophy was much smaller than the present one and was made by Messrs Martin, Hall & Co, of Birmingham, costing £20.

Efforts to recover the original FA Cup were unsuccessful, and Aston Villa bosses were forced to pay a fine of £25 because the trophy was stolen while in their care.

ITV's Andy Bevan made this report on the cup in the lead up to the final last season.