Mayoral chains stolen in town hall burglary

Burglars have stolen the mayor of Dewsbury's ceremonial chains during a raid at the town hall.

West Yorkshire Police said the thieves had broken in to the building at about 20:15 GMT on Sunday, after gaining access through the roof.

Officers said once inside the gang had targeted a cabinet containing the gold-plated chains, which date from 1897.

Appealing for witnesses a police spokesperson said the chains were of "significant cultural and historical value".

Kirklees Council's leader Carole Pattison said she was "deeply shocked" at the theft of the mayoral chains.

"The mayoral chains are an important part of Dewsbury's civic heritage. Their significance to the people and history of Dewsbury is even greater than their monetary value," she said.

She urged anyone with information about the theft to contact police so that they can recover these "local treasures".

Det Insp Divek Ubhi said: "The mayoral chains are of significant cultural and historical value to the town of Dewsbury and its residents, and this theft will cause real upset and anger."

He said the force was liaising closely with Kirklees Council to identify suspects and to "recover the chains for communities".

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