Appeal over theft of half ton statue

Brazen thieves have stolen a half tonne two metre tall wooden statue from Cannock Chase leaving police dumbfounded.

Officers have issued an appeal to members of the public who might know the whereabouts of the Chief Sitting Bull statue which disappeared between midday on September 12 and 1pm on September 23.

Officers hope people may recognise the statue or come forward with information if they saw anything suspicious.

The statue was created by a sculptor for Route to Health arts trail which celebrated its sixth year on September 28 at the Birches Valley Centre.

The Chief Sitting Bull wood carving was due to be collected on Tuesday September 23 by its Northamptonshire country park owners but when they arrived at the centre on Marquis Drive it had vanished.

Emma Stanley, spokesman for Staffordshire Police Chase Division said: "It is thought the offenders would have needed to use lifting equipment of some kind to move the carving.

"We are appealing to the public for their help in tracing the Chief Sitting Bull which is made from redwood and is two metres tall. The carving was discovered missing by its owners when they came to collect it on Tuesday September 23. We believe the statue was taken between midday on the Monday and 1pm on the Tuesday."

The Route to Health is a free arts trail and last year attracted 54,000 visitors. It is access and wheelchair friendly with rest stops all along the road, making it ideal for all ages and abilities.

The artworks included on the trail are made by local community groups, artists and sculptors for visitors to enjoy and it promotes a healthier lifestyle.

This project is delivered in partnership with Cannock Chase Council's Arts Development Officer, Forestry Commission, and a number of community organisations.

The project is also endorsed by South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust as it encourages people to get out and enjoy nature and exercise, even if just for a stroll.

It is also used by people to recover from serious illnesses and to help lose weight.

Anyone with information on the theft or who may know the whereabouts of the redwood statue should contact police on 0300 123 4455 quoting incident 396 or crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.