Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore were today feeling a bit lonely - after thieves made off with their best pal.

An 8in Winnie the Pooh garden ornament, worth £20, was stolen from the front courtyard of a home in Beambridge Mews, Basildon.

Pooh's owner, who did not want to be named, said the cute concrete character was sorely missed.

He said: "We were sad to see him go. My 15-month-old daughter has got everything to do with Winnie the Pooh and the other day she pointed to where he should be.

"I think she's a bit upset that he's gone and we may well replace him."

"I think maybe someone is trying to kit out their own garden. My neighbour's had some pots stolen too."

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