POLICE are hunting thieves who stole a portfolio of antique bird prints.

The leather-bound album of prints, called Birds of America, was stolen from Smith’s Vintage on Swanage’s High Street.

Pictures of the antique prints have been released in a bid to find the culprits.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone that may have seen or been offered the prints to get in touch. The theft took place between Friday July 4 and Thursday September 4.

Police Constable Paul Holman, of Purbeck police, said: “The storage where the album is kept is not checked regularly and the theft was only discovered in early September.

“The prints were in a large black and green leather-bound album with the gold writing, saying Birds of America on the front.

“I am now able to release images of the stolen items.

“I would urge anyone with information about the whereabouts of the prints, the portfolio or the person responsible for the theft to contact police.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting crime number 36606, or alternatively call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

 

Dorset Echo: