'Irreplaceable' rocks stolen from ruins of historic North Warwickshire castle

Theives who entered the ruins of Hartshill Castle stole irreplaceable stones and also damaged the ancient monument.

They gained entry to the site overnight between Sunday, October 2 and the following morning.

During the theft they clambered over a wall causing it to partially fall down.

The granite and sandstone rocks that were stolen are said to be irreplaceable.

Local police officers and the Rural Crime Co-ordinator for the area are working with the custodians of the castle to improve security and find the offenders.

Carol Cotterill, Rural Crime Co-ordinator for North Warwickshire, said "It is dreadful that people have disregarded the value of this historical ruin and stolen rocks that are so old and irreplaceable.

"They have damaged part of our heritage and must be stopped."

The first stone building at the castle was in the 13th century, but there has been a castle in Hartshill since 1125 and it is believed the site has been occupied since 10,000 BC in Stone Age times.

Police are urging local residents to come forward with information that could help them track down the thieves.

PCSO Sarah Fretter said "We are asking residents to keep an eye on the castle and report to us any suspicious activity, especially at night. "The castle is an important part of Hartshill and its history, we all need to help protect this ancient site."

Anyone with information that could help the police with their enquiries should call 101 and refer to incident 234 of October 3.

Alternatively information can be sent by email to sarah.fretter@warwickshire.pnn.police.uk or carolcotterill@warwickshire.gov.uk.