THE theft of lead drainpipes
from Newstead Abbey has been described as a "tragedy" by the chairman
of its Byron society.
Twelve lead drainpipes and a
number of ornate brackets were stolen from the abbey in two separate incidents
on November 28 and December 6.
The brackets – which
had unique markings featuring hexagons, lions and the Star of David –
were installed by Colonel Wildman, who owned the house in the 19th century.
Ken Purslow, chairman of
Newstead Abbey Byron Society said: "The drainpipes themselves are very
substantial pieces of pipe, they're not just a thin lead pipe, they're a
substantial work of art.
"The tiebacks are of
historical importance.
"Colonel Wildman,
himself also a mason, was the provincial grand master of Nottinghamshire.
There's a very important historical link."
Mr Purslow has criticised the
city council, which owns the building, claiming it needs to take extra care to
protect the abbey.
He said: "I think it's a
tragedy, the city council have got to do something about this.
"Look what has happened
to Annesley Hall in recent years. If they want an example this is it. Once a
splendid 13th century country mansion, far superior in its day to Newstead, it
is derelict, stripped of everything valuable and completely vandalised.
"Is this something the
city council wants to see? Or will this latest episode shake them out of their
complete indifference?"
The abbey, once home to Lord
byron, was named in October as one of the world's most threatened cultural
heritage sites by the New York-based World Monuments Watch, stating it is in
desperate need of long-term maintenance.
Its opening hours were also
cut by the council this year.
Ron Inglis, city council
service manager for museums, said: "We are very saddened by this loss and
the damage to a historic property.
"Unfortunately this is a
problem that many stately homes and churches are facing around the country.
"The city council takes
the security of its historic buildings very seriously and a variety of security
measures are in place at Newstead Abbey including a caretaker on site at all
times.
"All accessible lead has
been removed from the abbey since these thefts and temporary down pipes put in
place to protect the building. We will consult with English Heritage about the
most appropriate way to deal with this in the long term."
He added that the council is
anxious to have the lead returned. The pipes are about eight feet in length and
five inches in diameter. Any metal dealer offered them should call Notts Police
on 101 and ask for Ravenshead Police.
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