Show bird stolen

SHOW birds worth 1,500 were stolen from the aviary of an enthusiast in Lower Willingdon last week.

A prized collection of 16 yellow Yorkshire Canaries, two Green Finches and two Red Poles were taken from the back garden of Mr Ronald Moon, 62, of Wannock Lane on Thursday night last week.

Mr Moon, a member of the Eastbourne Cage Bird Society, has lived at his current address for 30 years and has never been troubled by thieves before.

'They knew what they were doing, he said 'They just ripped the handle off the door and levered it open. I never heard a thing.

As well as winning numerous competitions, Mr Moon has exhibited his birds all over the country, including the National Exhibition at Birmingham NEC.

Police and the Moons are eager to see the treasured birds returned as soon as possible. Anyone who saw anything suspicious or who have information should contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999.