The collector of a unique 'one of a kind' aircraft built in Stapleford Abbotts is appealing for the return of parts stolen from an engineering firm in Ongar.

Aviation fan Keith Preen, from Powys. Wales, is distraught by the theft and is desperate to have the parts to his Thurston Tawney Owl plane returned.

The plane is the only one of its kind ever built and in fully restored condition is said to be worth around £50,000.

The thief struck on December 22 when they visited the engineering firm where parts of the plane were being repaired. The man said he was a friend of Mr Preen and was collecting them for him.

It was only recently that Mr Preen discovered that the pieces had been stolen and reported the crime to the police.

The parts taken were the wings, the fuselage - the body of the plane - and the tailpiece.

Anyone with information should call Harlow Police on 01279 641212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Thursday, March 14, 2002