'HOODED' burglars forced their way into a Dorset hotel and stole antique silverware, police have revealed.

They have now released images of the items that were taken in the raid at the Eastbury Hotel, Long Street, Sherborne.

The burglary took place at about 1.15am on Monday, May 24

It has been reported that a member of staff saw three hooded figures walking back from the main hotel through the gardens.

Dorset Echo: The Eastbury Hotel in SherborneThe Eastbury Hotel in Sherborne

All three, which were assumed to be male, have been described as approximately 5ft 9ins tall and wearing dark hooded tops. When they realised that they had been seen, they ran away.

A sash window to the library room was found to be forced open and two sets of antique silverware stolen. The first is of an octagonal design with the second set being oval.

Police Constable Nathan Boissé, of Dorset Police, said: “These sets have been in the family for many years and are of both sentimental and significant monetary value.

“I would urge anyone who may have seen three people matching the description in the area and the relevant time to contact us.

Dorset Echo: Antique silverware was taken during a burglary at Eastbury Hotel in Sherborne Picture: Dorset PoliceAntique silverware was taken during a burglary at Eastbury Hotel in Sherborne Picture: Dorset Police

“Also, I am keen to hear from anyone who has been offered silverware matching the items shown or seen them advertised for sale.

“We would be grateful if anyone with CCTV around Long Street could check their CCTV to see if they have captured anything that might assist our investigation.

“Furthermore, I am interested to speak with two men who came into the hotel after 9pm on Sunday 23 May 2021 and asked to look around the grounds. A white man came to the front desk asking about a wedding party at the hotel and wanted to look around. Shortly afterwards a man of Asian appearance came from the garden area and enquired about a room before asking to look around the hotel. Both men had their requests declined and left.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210081561. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.