Appeal over stadium theft

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for information following the theft of four historic medals and a pocket watch belonging to Heart of Midlothian FC, from Tynecastle Stadium.

The theft is believed to have happened between 8am and 4.30pm on Wednesday (7th August) when a display cabinet was forced open and the five items were stolen.

The alarm was raised by a glass cleaner, who noticed the missing items and alerted management.

Following inquiries, it is understood workers at the stadium noticed a suspicious-looking man on the Wednesday, around the time when the historic items, which formed part of the Hearts Stadium Tour, are believed to be have been taken.

The man is described as white, 40 to 45 years of age, 5ft 9in tall, medium build, short ginger hair, clean-shaven, wearing a dark bomber jacket and dark trousers.

The four missing items are: An 18ct gold pocket watch; a Scottish Football League Championship Winners' medal 1896 - 1897, won by James Mirk; a Scottish Football League Championship Winners' medal 1894 - 1895 won by George Scott; a Victory Cup Final runners-up medal from 1919, awarded to Bob Mercer Victory and a medal awarded posthumously to Harry Wattie who was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

Managing Director David Southern said: "We're dismayed that, especially at a time when everyone is pulling together to keep the club going, someone would do this. Not only have they stolen part of the history of the club and the city they have effectively stolen from the supporters and the many other people that are giving so much at the moment to help Heart of Midlothian Football Club.

"Our only concern is receiving the medals and the watch back undamaged. We hope that maybe even the person who took them would see the error of their ways and there might be a way that they could be returned, even anonymously, to the club."

Inspector David Hynd from Police Scotland said: "These medals have significant historic value, not just to Heart of Midlothian FC but to the city of Edinburgh.

"We are keen for anyone with any information to come forward and contact Police Scotland."

Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, or make an anonymous report through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Hearts World