Stolen Art Watch, John Russell Royal Barometer, Temperature,Targeted, Taken !!

Antique barometer burglary near Ripon

Detectives are investigating the theft of a valuable antique barometer

It was stolen, during a burglary, from a cottage in West Tanfield, near Ripon between 10pm on Monday 23 May and 1pm Tuesday 24 May 2011.

The 200-year-old stick barometer, which is 40in tall and made from mahogany with a silvered brass face, is valued at £30,000.

Detective Constable Karl Middlemiss, of Northallerton CID, said: "As this is a highly distinctive item I am positive that people will remember seeing it.

"I am appealing to anyone who has any information about this theft, or knows where the barometer is now, to come forward and contact me as soon as possible.

"I am particularly interested in hearing from anyone in the antiques trade who may have been offered the item. The barometer is an early example of the work of John Russell who was made Watchmaker to His Royal Highness the Prince Regent in 1811."