Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice near Arundel was left devastated after a treasured statue was stolen in broad daylight on Tuesday, 16 December.
Beloved Statue Snatched Outside Hospice
A bronze resin sculpture of a little boy playing with a mouse vanished from outside the hospice entrance. Crafted by Devon artist Vanessa Marston, the statue was one of three charming figures symbolising comfort and care for families.
Kevin Blackett, Head of Operational Delivery at Chestnut Tree House and Southern Hospice Group, slammed the theft as “cold-hearted and horrible,” especially just before Christmas.
“This is a special time of year for our families, and this is so disrespectful,” he said.
More Than Just Art: A Beacon of Hope
- The bronze resin trio was funded by a generous donor, costing over £5,000 and installed back in 2004.
- Other statues include a little girl gazing at her hands and an older girl dancing gracefully.
- These sculptures offer families a comforting sign they’ve reached a sanctuary of care and childhood joy.
Kevin emphasised, “The statues are distinctive. They offer families and children a reassuring signal that they have arrived at a place of care, sanctuary and play.”
Charity Pleads: Help Make It Too Hot to Handle
Chestnut Tree House is urging locals to stay vigilant on online marketplaces, social media selling sites, and car boot sales for any sign of the stolen statue.
The charity says the statue is irreplaceable, both for its uniqueness and the crucial care it represents. Running the hospice costs nearly £9 million annually, with only 19% from government funding. The rest comes from donations.
Police Investigation Underway, Security Tightened
Sussex Police have launched a probe into the bold daylight theft. The hospice has responded by beefing up security, including closing car parks earlier during winter and securing the building with 24/7 pass-card access.
Anyone with information or who spots the stolen statue is urged to come forward immediately.
