Investigators are seeking help to identify a suspect who was caught on CCTV after an attack at Arundel Castle, which saw valuable exhibits taken.
The appeal to trace the man comes after the raid on the West Sussex castle last May, which led to several historic items worth more than £1 million being stolen from the building.
Mary Queen Of Scots Rosary Beads, seven gold coronation cup and seven gold batons are among the stolen items. They date back to around the 1700s.
Officers from Sussex Police want to talk to the man captured by CCTV on Clacket Lane, Kent’s motorway service on the M25.
He was described as white, aged in his 30s or 40s, with dark coloured hair and a high hairline.
The tracksuit top was dark in colour and the bottoms were black.
Anyone who can find the items missing has been eligible for a reward.
The images below are from a suspect police would love to interview about the May 2021 burglary at Arundel Castle.
Treasures worth more than £1milion were stolen from Arundel Castle, West Sussex, including gold rosary beads Mary Queen of Scots carried to her execution in 1587 (pictured with her bible)
According to a spokesperson for Sussex Police, a man of 45 years was arrested in connection with the burglary. He was taken into custody at Eckington in Worcestershire by Sussex Police officers as part of a joint operation between Gloucestershire Constabulary and West Mercia Police.
“He is being investigated.”
Police detective Alan Pack said that Arundel Castle burglary investigation is ongoing. He added: “We are eager to trace and identify this man.”
“If you are able to identify the victim or have additional information, contact Sussex 101 and quote Operation Deuce.
“We also remind you that insurers offer a large reward for property recovered in good condition.”
Experts have previously indicated that the attack on West Sussex Castle was likely to be a curator from an overseas country. It took place on Friday May 21, at 10.30pm.
The alarms were tripped within minutes and police responded immediately. They also found a 4×4 car on fire in Barlavington, which was investigated by forensic teams.
After smashing them into cabinets, thieves took “many” precious objects. Queen Mary’s rosary beads were among the most stolen. She was executed at Fotheringhay Castle in 1587 for being complicit in a plot against Queen Elizabeth I.
According to a spokesperson for Sussex Police, the rosary has little or no value as metal. According to the force, the rosary is an integral part of Howard’s family history as well as the country’s national heritage.
The Sussex Police declined to comment, citing ‘operational’ reasons. However experts stated they think the items could end up as a private illegal collection.
Mary returned to Scotland after the death of King Francis II in 1560.
She married Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley in 1565 and had their son James, in June 1566.
After fleeing to England, she was captured in England by Queen Elizabeth I in 1568.
Mary, who was plotting against Elizabeth I was discovered to have written coded letters from her to other people. Mary was also deemed guilty for treason.
A Sussex Police spokesman said the rosary is of little value as metal, but of huge significance
At 10.30 pm on May 21, alarms were set at the castle. A display case was broken so that thieves could access the treasures within.
Experts believe it to have been a curator (or someone from abroad) who ordered the smash-and-grab on historic Arundel Castle on Friday, May 21st at 10.30pm.
Her execution took place at Fotheringhay Castle in 1587.
A spokeswoman for Arundel castle Trustees explained that although the items were stolen have significant monetary values, however, unique artifacts of Duke of Norfolk’s collection are of immeasurable greater historical and historic importance.
“We encourage anyone who has information to call the police so they can assist in returning the treasures where they belong.”