POLICE have released images of distinctive ornamental animals, worth thousands of pounds, which were stolen from a garden centre near Clent.

More than 20 garden ornaments, mainly made from metal, were taken from Barnett Hill Garden Centre, Worcester Road, during a break in between 6.15pm on Monday July 1 and 6.20am on Tuesday July 2.

Seven cows, two cats, six mice, and six chickens, some of which can be used as beer coolers, were among the items stolen - plus a large Staffie dog made from resin.

The ornaments are believed to be worth several thousand pounds and police think the thieves will try to sell them on.

PC Rich Allen, of West Mercia Police, said: “These are very distinctive items which the thieves are likely to be trying to sell, and we would like to hear from anyone who sees them offered for sale.

“We would also like to hear anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious at the garden centre overnight between Monday evening and Tuesday morning.”

Police believe the offenders accessed the garden centre from the rear - and made their getaway via a bridlepath next to the site, dragging the ornamental animals in a large bag.

Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Rich Allen (collar number 2511) at Kidderminster Police Station by calling the non-emergency number 0300 333 3000 and quoting incident 65-s-020713.

Alternatively people can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.