Three guns stolen in raid on Shropshire motorhome
A rare deactivated machine gun and two air rifles were stolen during a burglary at a motorhome in a village in Shropshire.
Police today appealed for help in tracing the weapons, which were used as theatrical props. The 7.62 calibre general purpose machine gun was among items taken from within gated grounds in Cherrington Lane in the tiny village of Cherrington, near Newport.
The owner, a 57-year-old man, used the gun as a prop, along with his 1961 Daimler Ferret armoured car, which was widely used by the British Army from 1952 to 1971 and is now considered to be a collectors' item that is popular at military fairs.
The man takes the car and the gun to vintage car shows in the area as well as charity events. The victim, who asked not to be named, said he was desperate to get the items back, especially the deactivated machine gun, which is safe and cannot be used.
He said today: "The machine gun is very rare and will be impossible to replace. I want it back because it's absolutely useless to anyone else."
The two air rifles taken in the burglary were a BSA Scorpion Stealth, worth about £400, and an Original 22, worth £200.
The burglary happened late on Wednesday night in an area that is isolated and dark. The victim believes the thieves came in through the woods near his motorhome, cutting wire along the way.
Once within the grounds they tried to gain entry through the door but failed. They instead smashed a window, causing extensive damage, before stealing the items and making their escape.
He said: "They caused a right mess. They tried to pull the TV off the wall but then realised they couldn't get it through the window so had to leave it.
"There were CDs everywhere. It's very upsetting but there's not a lot you can do. I simply have to clear up, repair the damage and get on with it."
The man has lived on the land in the large motorhome for three years.
A relative owns the land, he said.
Chris Ammonds, spokesman for West Mercia Police, said: "It appears the thieves carried out a thorough search of the motor home.
"They then stole a number of items before making their escape."
About 400 Benson and Hedges cigarettes were also stolen during the raid., according to detectives.
Officers say the thieves struck some time between 10.15am and 12.20pm on Wednesday.
Anyone who saw anything suspicious in Cherrington is asked to call police in Telford on 101. They should quote the police crime incident number 241S 050314.
Information can also be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
