Home / Crime and Justice / Heritage Postboxes Vanish: Police Hunt Overseas Buyers
Heritage Postboxes Vanish: Police Hunt Overseas Buyers
12 Feb
Summary
- More than 110 postboxes were stolen across the UK last year.
- Thefts may be for ornamental value or to sell to overseas collectors.
- Police are using new technology like 3D scanning to track stolen boxes.
Postbox thefts are becoming a growing concern across the UK, with over 110 reported stolen last year alone. Cheshire Police are investigating a series of these incidents, suggesting the valuable, ornamental doors of the boxes may be targeted for overseas sale or private display. Officer Jonathan Lightfoot emphasized the loss of heritage, stating, "part of history had left."
These thefts not only remove a piece of national heritage but also impact community access to postal services. The Postal Museum highlights that postboxes are beloved symbols of cultural identity, some dating back to Victorian England. Authorities are collaborating with Royal Mail and utilizing new technologies, such as forensic marking and 3D scanning, to create digital records of postboxes and aid in identifying stolen ones.
Royal Mail works with Crimestoppers to encourage the public to share any information regarding these thefts. While relatively rare, the impact on local communities and historical preservation is significant. Police urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around vulnerable postboxes, helping to protect these historical street fixtures.
