A MYSTERIOUS collection of household items - including one of the world's first stamps - has been found dumped in a rubbish bin in Dorchester.

Dorset Police were alerted to a bin at the Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre where they found a collection of stamps, as well as several oriental items.

After close inspection, a Westminster presentation case was found with one of the world's first stamps - the Penny Black from 1840.

There was also a larger collection of stamps as well as some oriental household items.

Police Community Support Officer Mark Wodarek-Black said: "We are appealing for anyone to come forward who might recognise the description of these items.

"There is a possibility that a crime took place and someone dumped the bag but at present no one has reported anything like this missing.

"It could be that someone is on holiday and does not know it has gone missing."

He added: "One of the most noticeable items is a black leather presentation case which has a certificate on the left and a well-presented Penny Black stamp on the right." The Penny Black was the world's first official adhesive pre-paid postage stamp and was issued on May 1, 1840.

The stamp features the portrait of the young Queen Victoria.

It was used for only a year before it was replaced by the Penny Red because the red cancellation stamp was too hard to see on the black stamp.

The value of the Penny Black ranges from £110 to £1,600 depending on the condition and if it is unused.

Anyone recognising the description or with any more information should contact Dorset Police on 01305 222222 or go into Dorchester Police Station.