Trio distracted staff member to steal statue from gallery

A STATUE of an Ancient Greek warrior has been stolen by three women in a daring distraction theft from a fine art gallery.

Police are hunting the women who stole the foot-high bronze sculpture, called Corinthian With Sword by Scott Shore, which was on display at the Cloud Gallery Chichester, West Sussex.

Officers say a woman, described as in her mid-20s, of large build, wearing

sunglasses and a blouse, distracted a staff member while two other women, believed to be between 18 and 20, stole the sculpture and left the premises.

Now officers are appealing for information to trace the suspects and return the artwork, worth £3,000. The piece is second of a limited edition of only nine scheduled to be made.

Pc Tessa Heath of Sussex Police said: “We are keen to trace and speak to the three suspects involved and return the statue to the rightful owner.

“The women seized the opportunity to steal the statue when the staff were busy. We would be keen to speak to anyone who noticed any suspicious behaviour in the area at this time.”

Scott, who is self-taught, has worked for the Royal Mint, as well as Royal Worcester and Royal Doulton.