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Thieves have stolen a marble statue of a Greek goddess from one of Britain's most elegant gardens.
The 4ft figure of Pomona, a goddess of fruitful abundance in ancient Roman religion and myth, was taken from the grounds of Sissinghurst Castle in the Weald of Kent.
Urns were also damaged as thieves tried to steal them as well when they struck at the National Trust-owned castle near Cranbrook overnight on May 26 and 27.
The stolen statue sees Pomona holding cymbals on a circular plinth and was donated to the National Trust by the late publisher and writer Nigel Nicolson.
A National Trust spokesman said: "We are working with Kent Police to help with their investigation and we hope anyone with information will get in touch with them as soon as possible.
"We are also currently reviewing our security arrangements."
Chief Inspector Nicola Faulconbridge, of Kent Police, said: "Statues and ornaments such as this are on display for the enjoyment of members of the public, who come both near and far to visit Sissinghurst Castle."
PA