Overnight burglary at Exeter Musuem

Multiple valuable items taken

Multiple valuable items have been taken from Exeter's Royal Albert Memorial Museum and art gallery.

Police believe two suspects forced entry to the site on Queen Street at around 5am on Wednesday 10 September.

17 antique pocket watches are believed to have been taken along with a flint lock blunderbuss attached to a bayonet.

Detective inspector Paula Trevett said: “Overnight two people have forced entry and taken valuable antique items from the museum.

“Our enquiries are ongoing, but I would encourage anyone with information that they think may be relevant, or if you have seen or heard of the whereabouts of the items taken, please get in touch.

“We are investigating a number of lines of enquiry at this time and the community will see officers carrying out enquiries in the area throughout the day.”

Councillor Philip Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council said: “We are deeply saddened by this theft and are working with the police to investigate.

“We take our role as custodians of RAMM's collection very seriously. The gallery has been secured and a thorough review of security is underway.

“Our hope is that the items, which are of great importance to the people of Exeter and Devon, can be recovered.

“The museum will reopen to the public on Thursday 11 September although access to the affected gallery may be limited.”

A scene guard remains in place and officers are making enquiries in the area.

Devon and Cornwall Police are appealing to anyone with information or footage that may assist investigation to contact police on 101.