Art thieves are being hunted by detectives after a 'high-value' painting was stolen during a burglary at a house in a leafy Cheshire village.
The painting by Ayrshire contemporary impressionist Alexander Millar, which measures around 5ft by 6ft, was taken during a break-in earlier this month.
It was the only thing stolen during the raid and holds 'particularly sentimental value to the victim', who is said to be 'devastated', police said. It's understood to be worth several thousand pounds.
Police in Cheshire have now launched a public appeal for anyone with information to come forward. In a statement, Cheshire Police said: "Officers are appealing for information and video footage after a high value painting was stolen during a burglary in Cheshire.
"The painting, which measures approximately 5ft by 6ft, was taken some time between Sunday 13 November and Tuesday 15 November, when unknown offenders broke into an address on Main Road, Goostrey.
"Enquiries in relation to the incident are ongoing and officers are urging anyone with information that may help their investigation to come forward. They have also released a photograph of the painting and want to hear from anyone who believes they may know where the painting could be.
Police Constable Ruth Rhodes, of Congleton’s Local Policing Unit, said: "Burglary is a serious offence in which victims are targeted in their own home, which is the place they should be able to feel most safe.
"Enquiries in relation to this incident are ongoing and we want to speak to anyone with any information in relation to the burglary.
"We also want to hear from anyone who thinks they may have information regarding the whereabouts of the painting, which has particularly sentimental value to the victim, who is understandably devastated by this incident."
Contact Cheshire Constabulary on 101 or at www.cheshire.police.uk/tua, quoting IML 1413341. Information can also be reported via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.
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