THE crowning glory of the Malvern Hills has returned to its rightful place in time for Christmas.

The toposcope - a circular map showing the sights from the hills - has been absent from the Worcestershire Beacon - the highest point in the Malvern Hills - since it was stolen in August.

Walkers who climb the slopes to view it have sorely missed the circular map.

But now, a replica has been produced which was put in place by the Malvern Hills Conservators' operation manager Paul Saunder, together with one of the field staff, this week.

"I can't describe how pleased I am it's returned," said Ray Roberts, chairman of the Conservators' public relations committee.

"It's just a shame we couldn't get it back quicker. But in this case, they damaged the metal rim as well.

"I just can't understand the mentality of the people who do this. Although they only stole a copy, it's caused a lot of upset to people who walk all the way up there to see it and find it's not there."

The theft of the map in August - some time between 8pm on Tuesday, August 31, and 2.30pm the following day - was the second time it has been stolen.

The new toposcope was copied from the original which was installed in 1898, in February 2000, and found at a property in Walsall, in December 2001.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 08457 444888.