York police are appealing for information following a theft from an art gallery in the city centre.

Two bronze figurines were stolen between 12pm on Saturday 7 April and 10am on Thursday 12 April 2012, while the gallery was open to the public.

The figurines of a man and a woman are made of solid bronze and stand 15 to 20cm in height. The pair is valued at £1,360.

PC Nicola Manning, of York Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
“I urge anyone who may have information about the theft or knows where the figurines are now, to contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away.”

Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is asked to contact York police on 101, press option 2 and ask for Nicola Manning.

Or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 12120058209

The Police have issued the following advice:

“Most callers at your door will be genuine. However, some are bogus, whose aim is to get inside your home to steal from you.

Bogus callers may pose as water, electricity or gas-board workers, council workers or even police officers so they can steal money or property from your home. You can prevent this type of crime if you take precautions.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this crime, remember the following four steps:
•LOCK all doors – even when you are at home
•STOP before you open the door, ask them who they are
•CHAIN– always use a door chain or spy hole
•NOT sure who they are? Don’t open the door!

ALWAYS ask the caller for their identification, and check it, before letting them in. Use the phone number in the phone book, not the one on their identity card.

Remember
A genuine caller will happily wait outside while you check on them by calling their organisation and or calling a family member or neighbour.

If you feel threatened by a caller, you must ring the police on 999″.