Second remembrance theft occurs in Spelthorne

The theft follows an incident on Monday November 2 when a Royal British Legion poppy appeal box was taken from Spelthorne Council's offices in Knowle Green, Staines, after it was chained to a desk.

Mrs Turner-Stewart said: "I went over to Woodthorpe Road on Sunday night and found it missing. I was just trying to pay respect to people who have died and someone comes along and steals it. It is unbelievable."

Mrs Turner-Stewart put them up to show respect for the fallen, because 20 flags were supposed to be put up in Edinburgh Drive, Stainash Parade, and Victoria Parade, all in Staines, but were delayed because of insurance issues.

The police have now issued a photo of the man they would like to question in regard to the stolen collection box from Spelthorne's offices last week.

Detectives are keen to speak to Matthew Bennett, 19, of Bowes Road, Staines, and members of the public are requested not to approach the man but contact Surrey Police instead.

He is still believed to be in the area.

The police are currently going through CCTV footage into the incident, but it is not understood how much money was in the box.

Spelthorne council Leader John Packman says: 'It is almost incredible that someone would want to steal money that goes to support ex servicemen and women from conflicts all over the world. Fortunately, in this instance, we have clear pictures of this criminal and he can expect to be brought to account very soon".

Anyone who has seen Bennett or with any information on his current location should contact Detective Sergeant Nick Hemmant CID on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/09/8933.