POLICE have launched a probe into the theft of two knitted post box toppers created  by the "Banksy of Leigh".

Linda Catling's distinctive and hand-made creations are well-known in the town and were located on a post box in Marine Parade.

However, at around 7pm on Wednesday, February 7, a Valentine’s Day inspired topper was taken, despite being secured with a chain and padlock.

The creator, known in the area as the “Banksy of Leigh”, knitted a topper entitled PC Plod, to replace the stolen one and placed it on the post box on Saturday, February 10. However, hours later, just before 7pm, the second topper was also stolen.

Officers want to speak to a man described as white and wearing a brown jacket and a cloth cap who was seen in the area at the time of both incidents.

Investigator Keith Harvey said: “These toppers are really popular in the town, during the lockdown in 2020 people would cross the road to look at them while out on their walks.

“Although these toppers may not be of a high monetary value they took a great deal of time and effort to make.  I really hope the community can come together and share any information or footage of the incidents.”

Submit a report on the Essex Police website or by using the online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am and 9pm.

Visit essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about the website reporting services. Alternatively, call police on 101. 

Cite incident 42/23160/24 when reporting any information.