Police are investigating the theft of four “irreplaceable” artefacts from a museum.
The items were stolen from South Shields Museum and Art Gallery between 26 and 27 August, Northumbria Police said, though it has only just released the information.
They include a nine-carat gold watch chain and a medal associated with former Manchester United goalkeeper Ray Wood.
Geoff Woodward, museum manager, said the items had “great significance” for local history and were “irreplaceable”.
Police said a Perspex display cabinet had been broken into and appealed for anyone who visited the museum on those dates and noticed anything suspicious to contact the force.
The items taken are:
- A nine-carat gold single watch chain with a 1902 Edward VII two pound double sovereign
- a gold medal displaying the image of a football player kicking a ball, which is associated with the late goalkeeper Ray Wood
- a gilt metal Coronation Hospital Fund medal, believed to be associated with the Ingham Infirmary in South Shields
- a cap badge from the British Electric Traction Company, Jarrow Tramways
Mr Woodward urged anyone with information to contact police.
He added: “The theft of these items will deny the public visiting the museum a chance to enjoy them both now and in the future.”
