The letter I from the large sign was stolen

The hoarding in Kington, Herefordshire, has been there for a month.

But festival organisers found that the 21ft-high letter "I" was missing when they arrived on Saturday morning.

They are appealing for it to be returned because it cannot be replaced at such short notice for the climax of the festival on Sunday.

Illuminated sign

Spokeswoman Nikki Jones said: "It was made locally and it took a few weeks to produce.

"We'd love to have it back because we've actually had the sign illuminated as well.

"It doesn't look right without the letter I.

"But the sign will still be illuminated on Saturday and Sunday night."

The festival, which lasts for a fortnight, brings together people from the market town with those from villages nearby.

West Mercia Police are investigating the theft.

Anyone with information is being asked to contact the festival's committee at the site.