Crochet Feathers McGraw postbox topper 'stolen'

A crochet model of Feathers McGraw from Wallace & Gromit was reportedly taken from a postbox in Melbourne, Derbyshire

A lifelike replica of Wallace & Gromit super villain Feathers McGraw has vanished after reportedly being taken from a postbox in Derbyshire.

His creator from Melbourne in Derbyshire, who wishes to remain anonymous, made the crocheted postbox topper earlier this month.

After issuing an appeal on social media, an account called Feathers McGraw mockingly commented that he would return once he "completes being a master criminal".

His creator said she was "gutted" and urged the person who took Mr McGraw to return him.

The crochet creator was sent this post responding to the appeal

She said she was "confused" and a "little creeped out" by the social media post which included a picture of the missing topper with the mocking message.

The anonymous artist said it took three days to complete and that it had a hugely positive response online and in the Melbourne community.

She said the crochet wrap she made to keep him around the postbox was cut off to prise Mr McGraw away on Monday.

Aired on 25 December, Christmas Day, Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl has been watched 21.6 million times in the first 28 days since its release.