A bronze statue of murdered Hersham schoolgirl Sarah Payne has been stolen.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the statue was taken from Burhill County Primary School in Pleasant Place in the early hours of Wednesday, March 11.

The 2ft statue of the young girl was presented to the school in memory of the former pupil, who was murdered when she was eight-years-old.

It is thought the statue was stolen at about 1am. Three people are believed to have been involved in the theft.

A van was also seen in the area at the time of the offence.

Elmbridge Neighbourhood Sergeant Marc Nettleingham said: "We are carrying out a number of enquiries to identify the offenders responsible for this theft, which is particularly reprehensible given that it was present to the school in memory of Sarah Payne.

"I am appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time of the offence, or with any other information, to come forward straight away."

Sarah also attended Bell Farm School, Hersham, and was abducted by paedophile Roy Whiting in July of 2000. Her body was found weeks later by a farmer.

  • If you can help, call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P15063260 or using the online reporting system found at https://my.surrey.police.uk/splonlinereportingweb Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.