Thieves walked into an hotel and stole an antique clock.

The theft took place at Newick Park, Newick, yesterday.

It is believed to have been carried out by two or three men in their late 20s.

They walked into the Georgian listed building, used as a hotel and golf club, and made off with the distinctive Gilt Ormalu timepiece, worth more than £1,000.

The 18in clock has four small feet, a dome top and a glass front. It is decorated with enamelled scenes and the hours are marked by jewels.

It is numbered 14904 and signed Chles Mt.

The thieves, all described as tanned and of athletic build, sped off in a white van.

Anyone with information about the theft should contact PC Hartwell or PC Bowen on 0845 6070999.