Theft of Antique Sundial at Paxton House
Police are conducting an investigation into the theft of an antique sundial from the grounds of a country house located in the Borders region over the weekend.
The charitable trust responsible for managing Paxton House, situated near the Scotland-England border, stated that it believes the sandstone sundial was stolen sometime during the weekend period.
The trust has appealed to the public to provide any information directly to them and described the incident as "heartbreaking."
Police Response and Early Investigations
Authorities confirmed that the theft was reported to them on Monday and that inquiries are currently at an early stage.
About Paxton House
Paxton House is located near the village sharing its name and is recognized as "one of Britain's finest Palladian houses."
Constructed for the Home family between 1758 and 1795, the house involved the work of some of the most distinguished architects and craftsmen of the Georgian era.
In 1988, a charitable organization was established to ensure that the public could enjoy the "beauty and tranquillity of this remarkable house with its extensive grounds and gardens."
Trust’s Statement on the Theft
A post on the Paxton House Facebook page expressed the trust’s belief that the site was deliberately targeted by thieves.
The post stated:
"We are shocked to report that our lovely sandstone sundial next to the apple yard by our Edinburgh window has been stolen over the weekend,"
"As a charitable trust we work extremely hard to look after our estate for visitors to enjoy and actions like this are incredibly heartbreaking.
"If you have any information about its whereabouts please contact us directly."
Ongoing Police Investigation
Police reiterated that they were informed of the sundial’s removal on Monday and are actively investigating the matter.
