POLICE are investigating the theft of two large ornate lions at a National Trust garden in Co Down.
The three-foot limestone lions were removed from their plinths at the main entrance at Rowallane Garden in Saintfield.
The theft at the National Trust headquarters on the Crossgar Road is believed to have taken place some time between last Friday and Wednesday.
The lions, nicknamed Leo One and Leo Two more than 30 years ago, are among the ornate features at the 50-acre garden, which was laid out in the mid-1860s by the Rev John Moore.
A popular spot for walkers, it is believed that Belfast author CS Lewis was a fan of Rowallane and the installation of the lions at the estate was a nod to Narnia, the fantasy land of his famous books.
Police confirmed on Friday that officers are investigating the theft of the sculptures at the garden.
A PSNI spokeswoman said: "Police are investigating the theft of two stone lions from the main entrance of the National Trust property at Rowallane on the Crossgar Road in Saintfield.
"They are believed to have been stolen between the evening of Friday 23 December and lunchtime on Wednesday 28 December.
"Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area during this time or who has information should contact police in Downpatrick by phoning 101 and quoting reference number 463 of 28/12/16.
"Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
A National Trust spokesman said it was "shocked and saddened" by the theft.
"The incident has been reported to the police and we are doing everything we can to help them in their investigations," he said.
"The lions are a popular feature of the garden and we would ask anyone who has any information as their whereabouts to please contact the police.
"As a conservation charity we look after special places like Rowallane Garden for the enjoyment of everyone and we hope to see the lions returned soon as possible so they can be enjoyed by our visitors throughout the year.”
