Knitted postbox toppers stolen in Leigh-on-Sea

The knitted postbox toppers were stolen from a cliff top in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex

Two knitted postbox toppers have been stolen from a cliff top, police said.

The "distinctive and handmade creations" were taken from Marine Parade in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, on 7 and 10 February.

Essex Police said it wanted to speak to a man described as white, wearing a brown jacket and cloth cap, who was seen in the area when both items were taken.

Officers have appealed to anyone with information to come forward.

The first topper, which was Valentine's Day themed, was taken at about 19:00 GMT on 7 February.

The creator, known locally as Banksy of Leigh, later replaced it with one of a police officer, holding pictures of the figurines from the Valentine's Day creation.

Yet hours after it was placed on top of the postbox it was stolen, at about 19:00 GMT on 10 February.

Keith Harvey, from Essex Police, said: "These toppers are really popular in the town, during the lockdown in 2020 people would cross the road to look at them while out on their walks.

"Although these toppers may not be of a high monetary value they took a great deal of time and effort to make.

"I really hope the local community can come together and share any information or footage of the incidents."