ANGRY pub staff have hit out after a reindeer Christmas decoration made by adults with learning disabilities was stolen from the Farmer's Arms in Fearnhead.

The model wooden reindeer was given to the pub as a gift by charity, the Walton Lea Project.

It does outreach work with vulnerable adults by providing employment in gardening, woodwork and floristry.

The matter is being investigated by Cheshire Police, although it appears responsibility has been taken for the theft - on Facebook.

A man called Matt Hopkinson posted a picture of him riding the reindeer on his Facebook page making a 'rock and roll' hand gesture.

He also wrote: "Woke up to this thing staring at me and realising (sic) I actually did ride home from the pub on wooden raindeer (sic) last night.

"Thanks Farmers Arms."

Amie-Louise Clarkson, who works at the pub on Fearnhead Lane, said CCTV appeared to show Mr Hopkinson taking the reindeer.

She said although it may have been considered a drunken prank, the origin of the 'sentimental' Christmas decoration should be considered.

The reindeer has not be returned.

Ms Clarkson said: "It's annoying someone thinks they can come into the pub and do that, and then laugh about it.

"I want him to feel ashamed rather than laughing about it."

The reindeer had been displayed in the pub over Christmas for the last three years. It was said to be popular with children.

"He is taking the mick by putting it on Facebook and making a big joke of it," said Ms Clarkson.

"It came from the Walton Lea Project and he doesn't have a clue about who made it and what it meant to them to do it."

Mr Hopkinson also posted on Facebook: "The police knocked on mine today saying they'd watch me riding it out of there on CCTV.

"Even the coppers were laughing.

"Got a caution for stealing a wooden raindeer (sic).

"Case closed."

However, after being contacted by the Warrington Guardian, Cheshire Police said no caution had been issued and the investigation remained active.