February 2, 2006
Ramsbury Manor art raid
The BBC is reporting a major theft of top-quality art and antiques:
Millions of pounds worth of 'museum quality' art has been stolen from the home of a reclusive property tycoon.Thieves raided Ramsbury Manor - a 17th Century mansion in Wiltshire said to be worth more than £20m, and home of Harry Hyams - on Wednesday night.
A Wiltshire Police spokesman said the items taken, including fine art and porcelain, were "worth a substantial amount - into the millions".
Posted by David on February 2, 2006 2:27 PM
I am surprised that this doesn't happen more often at some of these stately homes in UK which are filled with precious art.
Posted by: Charles on February 2, 2006 3:55 PM
Is this the Harry Hyams who was responsible for one of the worst buildings in London - Centre Point in New Oxford Street? An eyesore in the capital, it was kept empty for years as the owner held out for the highest rents, prompting then Prime Minister, Edward Heath, to declare this the "unacceptable face of capitalism." If this is the same man, then how ironic that he lives in one of the most beautiful counties in England in a period mansion surrounded by art (now purloined), having made his money by defacing London's West End.
Posted by: Paul on February 3, 2006 2:38 PM
gmail.com