[MSN] Rare statue of Burns is snatched

[Museum Security Network Mailinglist]

*A BRONZE statue of Rabbie Burns worth £30,000 has been stolen from a 
hotel after it was left by the entrance in an unlocked cabinet.*

The rare exhibit of the Bard is thought to be one of just four in existence.

It was snatched from the Belleisle House Hotel in Ayr late on Tuesday 
night or in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The 3ft sculpture is a replica of the famous statue of the poet that 
stands in the town's Burns Square.

And police say the thief will have a hard time selling it on because it 
is so distinctive.

Detectives believe at least two people were involved in the theft as the 
statue is so heavy.

It was on loan to the hotel in Belleisle Park from the Burns Club in 
nearby Alloway, where the Bard was born in 1759, and was on display for 
several years.

The society allowed the exhibit to be displayed as long as it was 
returned for special occasions.

Police think the thieves probably used a getaway car, but no CCTV 
footage of the foyer was available.

Detective Constable Derek Cree said: "This is a very rare item which is 
easily identifiable. There are believed to be only four such statues."

Thousands of tourists flock to Ayr each year to visit the birthplace of 
the world-renowned poet and author, who wrote such famous poems and 
songs as To a Mouse and My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose.

Alloway Burns Club could not be contacted, and hotel bosses declined to 
comment on the theft.

Anyone who has information about the theft should contact 0141 532 5700, 
or Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111.

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk