A THREE-FOOT Buddha filled with gravel has been stolen from a house in Latchford after thieves ransacked the garden.

Anna Whelan, of Ash Grove, was shocked to discover that the statue along with two smaller Buddhas and two gargoyles had been stolen when she woke up on Tuesday, May 13.

Ornaments had also been torn from the walls and the offenders had even managed to get into the porch.

The mum of two said: “It would have taken at least two to three men to pick up the big Buddha. This isn’t just youths messing about. It was obviously a planned job.

“It was early in the morning when it happened. We heard something outside but we just thought it was the milk man.”

The 45-year-old has since reported the theft to the community police, who are looking into it.

She said: “I know I won't get my Buddhas back but would like to thank the Warrington police for taking the time to listen and explain to me that I'm not wasting their time.

“They were very helpful and advised me to keep an eye out at car boot sales and look on buy and sell websites.”