Appeal for return of ball signed by Martin Johnson

CCTV shows the rugby ball, signed by Martin Johnson, sitting at the end of the bar

A rugby ball signed by England rugby legend Martin Johnson and destined to be auctioned for children's charities has been taken from a clubhouse bar.

Falmouth Rugby Club, in Cornwall, issued a "polite request" for the return of the ball - signed by Mr Johnson who captained England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

"We truly appreciate the enthusiasm and excitement that comes with wanting to hold such a special shaped ball," the club said on social media.

"If your child has acquired an unknown ball on Boxing Day please return it."

'In confidence'

John Bullock, chairman of the rugby club, told the BBC the ball went missing during a Boxing Day game between Falmouth and Penryn.

"A good friend of mine had brought the ball in for us to auction for Cornwall children's hospices but unfortunately it's gone missing," he said.

"The plea really is for the return of the ball.

"We're not blaming anyone, I'm sure it's been done accidentally by a child, but we're pretty upset about it, it's a special ball signed by a special person and the children's hospices are dear to the club's heart."

The club said the ball could be returned "in confidence".