TRANSPORT police are anxious to trace this man in connection with the theft of a £4,000 silver chain of office from a train running between Newton Abbot to Plymouth.
The chain, owned by the Cooperative Women’s Guild, was in a black suitcase when it vanished during the journey west on May 6. Details of the the theft were only released today.
British Transport Police (BTP), investigating the crime, want to hear from anyone recognising the man pictured on a security camera at Plymouth’s station.
The owner of the bag kept an eye on her luggage throughout her journey from Newton Abbot to St Austell.
She last saw the case just before the train arrived in Plymouth. When she reached her Cornish destination the bag had disappeared.
PC Steve Campbell from BTP in Plymouth said: ‘The chain is very distinctive and made of silver - hence its high value.
‘It has been with the Guild for around 100 years - and we would love to be able to return it to them if at all possible.
‘Sadly, we fear this is unlikely. The next best thing would be to catch the person responsible and get justice for them instead.’
He added: ‘The man in the CCTV image was seen getting on the train at Newton Abbot without luggage but leaving at Plymouth carrying a large black bag.
‘We believe he may have more information about what happened and I would urge anyone who knows his identity to contact us.
Anyone able to help with inquiries can call BTP on 0800 405040 or text them on 61016 quoting reference 281 of 18/05/16.
They can use the confidential Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.