A gallery owner says tracking down a £6,000 owl statue stolen in a smash and grab would send a “strong message” to would-be thieves.

Richard Taylor-Jones, who runs Taylor-Jones & Son in Deal High Street, has vowed not to “let things like this go by without stepping up” after the break-in.

Police are urging witnesses to come forward after the large bronze statue was stolen shortly after midnight yesterday.

“It would be wonderful if we could get the artwork back, not only for the artist and gallery.

“We live in such a lovely town, which is a friendly, welcoming and caring community.

“It would send a really strong message to anybody wanting to do more things like this.

“It is a watchful, close-knit community and we won’t let things like this go by without stepping up.”

Mr Taylor-Jones is unsure whether the theft was targeted or opportunistic.

“My feeling is it was either stolen to order – as it’s £6,000, where somebody had seen it and they worked out how to get in,” he added.

“Or it was opportunistic, as it was a small side window that was smashed and they were able to grab one piece.

“They aren’t easy to sell on eBay or online, so it feels like somebody spotted it, knew they wanted it and took it.

“It is really heavy, so it is not an easy thing to get out of a window.

“You have to think really clearly about how you are going to achieve it.”

The gallery’s website listing for Burnt Barn Owl reveals the statue is one of 12 limited-edition pieces by leading wildlife sculptor Adam Binder.

Anyone with information regarding the theft should call police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/94356/25.

Anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area, or who has private CCTV or doorbell footage which might assist, is also urged to come forward.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form on its website.