Thieves have stolen a marble statue from the grounds of Sissinghurst Castle in an overnight crime spree.

The figure of Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruitful abundance, was taken from the National Trust property's gardens - among the world's most famous and which have inspired imitations across the globe.

Several other urns were also damaged in what is believed to have been an attempt to steal them too.

The theft is believed to have taken police overnight on Sunday into the early hours of Monday.

Kent Police are now appealing for help to find the missing statue.

Ch Insp Nicola Faulconbridge said: "Statues and ornaments such as this are on display for the enjoyment of members of the public, who come from both near and far to visit Sissinghurst Castle.

"I hope that anyone with any information will get in contact and help us identify the suspects and return the property."

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to phone Kent Police on 101 - quoting crime reference YY/9981/13 - or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.