A rare book worth up to £250,000 has been stolen from a house in Benfleet.

A reward has been offered for the return of the book which has a woodcut picture on the cover and bears the title A Parallell between Robert late Earle of Essex and George late Duke of Buckingham.

The book, by Sir Henry Wotton was first published in 1641.

The owner had been unaware the precious little book had vanished from his home for three weeks before the shock discovery.

The 16-page, A5 book, shows its subjects in period costume.

There are only two known copies of the book in existence, the other being held in the library of Eton College.

Its owner, who did not wish to be named, said: "It is certainly a very rare book and possibly the best copy in the world. It was a first edition."

Investigating officer, PC Lee Morton from Canvey police, said: "We have notified the Metropolitan Police fine arts section who have alerted all reputable dealers and antique houses.

"I am asking for the help of the public in case this book finds its way into a local sale. The owner is desperate to get back this irreplaceable book and is offering a £500 reward for its safe return."

Anyone with information should contact Canvey police on 01268 775533.