Thieves have stolen a shield which could be unique from a village church near Clacton.
The icon was was wrenched off its mounting in the porch of Little Bentley Church in Church Road, Little Bentley, between December 13 and 18.
The black metal crest with gold detailing measures 24 ins by 30ins. It features a rampant lion and unicorn, with a royal coat of arms between them, and a scroll underneath bearing the inscription "Dieu et mon droit".
The shield is of unknown value, and could well be unique, according to church officials.
Anyone who comes into contact with the shield or who can supply police with information about the theft has been asked to contact Sgt Griggs at Brightlingsea police station on 01206 302515 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 .
Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article