Arrests after four 'iconic' statues stolen from Iford Manor in Wiltshie
Two men have been arrested after four statues were stolen from Iford Manor in Wiltshire.
Police said suspects broke into the property near Bradford-on-Avon on the night of Thursday 19 June into the early hours of the following morning.
The estate said four "iconic" bronzes were stolen from the Grade I-listed gardens, which have been shortlisted for the Historic Houses Garden of the Year Awards.
A post on the manor's website said it was "still reeling" from the loss of the statues, in particular the copy of the Capitoline She-Wolf with Romulus and Remus, which "has overlooked the valley here for over 120 years".
"This is a cultural loss for all of us," the post said.
"The gardens here have welcomed visitors since 1910 and now have 20,000 visitors from April to September who enjoy the tranquil and beautiful setting, of which the She-Wolf was the heart and in a setting made to showcase the statue."
The other statues stolen include a pair of symmetrical fawns, copies of the Villa Dei Papiri fawns, and a bust of Antinous.
At the time of the theft, the estate was hosting a five-day jazz festival.
Wiltshire Police said a 31-year-old man and a 39-year-old man were arrested in the Bristol area on Thursday evening and were later released on bail.
Detective Inspector Penny Andrews said: "We are continuing to appeal for anyone knows anything about the stolen items or who saw anything suspicious leading up to the incident to come forward with information.
"No matter how insignificant you may think the information may be, it could be vital to assist our ongoing investigation.
"We would also urge any antique dealers or auction houses to look out for the items."
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