Spencer Painting Theft

Last week a thief broke into the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham, Berkshire, cut this oil painting from its frame and made off with it: Sir Stanley Spencer's Cookham From Englefield (1948). It was on loan to the museum. Its private owner, Sue Elsden, is devastated by the loss and has appealed for its return (CLICK). The painting measures 3ft by 2ft and is worth about £1m. The Stanley Spencer Gallery website has details and contact numbers (CLICK).