A huge cast bronze hippo has been stolen from a garden ornament business.

The hippo weighs almost three quarters of a tonne and is around 2m long. It was taken from the Chilstone premises in Fordcombe Road, Langton Green, near Tunbridge Wells

The theft is believed to have taken place between 5.30pm on Wednesday, and 7am Thursday morning, after entry was forced to the site’s show gardens.

PC Nick Lingham said: "The hippo is extremely heavy and in the past it has taken five people to lift it. It is clear those responsible would have needed a large vehicle such as a flat-bed truck and may have also needed to lift it by mechanical means.

"It is a hugely distinctive object and it is unlikely the offenders will find it that easy to sell on as scrap or to a collector. Because of its sheer size we are hoping people may have seen it being transported and also asking members of the public to keep their eyes open and report anything suspicious."

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 10-0236. Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.