Historic items stolen from National Trust house in Somerset – Irvine Times

The burglary at Montacute House in Somerset happened at around 11pm on Tuesday, October 22, police said.

The objects taken from the Elizabethan house date from the early 19th century, including a pewter cup from 1850 and several porcelain objects, one which is decorated with three gold birds and another which dates from around 1810.

Specialist Investigating Officer Dave Pepper, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: “Officers attended on the night the burglary was reported to us and found that entry had been forced to gain access to the property.

“We have carried out CCTV inquiries and spoken to a number of people living nearby as part of our ongoing investigation.

“We have also provided additional security advice to help prevent similar incidents in the future.”

“The stolen items are historic and we want to help reunite the National Trust with them.

“We would like to hear from anyone who has information on their whereabouts.”

Kerry Phillips, National Trust general manager for Montacute House, said: “This has been a very upsetting incident for our staff and volunteers.

“The stolen items were a valuable part of the collection, in particular the épergne, which is of exceptional importance as it was commissioned by Edward Phelps, one of the owners of Montacute House, in the 18th century.

“The National Trust takes incidents like this extremely seriously and is constantly reviewing security measures at our sites, working closely with local police forces.”

According to the National Trust website, Montacute House was completed in 1601 and its former owner, Sir Edward Phelps, played a key role in the prosecution of the notorious Guy Fawkes and his fellow gunpowder plotters.

Police are urging anyone with information about this theft or the whereabouts of the items to call 101 quoting crime reference number 5224279138 or contact them online.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.