A STOLEN lighthouse lantern - one of only three in the world and valued at over £1 million - is believed to have been moved to the West Mercia area by the thieves.

The lantern, which dates back to the mid to late 1800s, was stolen during a three night crime spree this week in Ilfracombe, North Devon, and Devon and Cornwall Police and now appealing for Worcestershire residents help to find it.

Police investigating the spree said a man aged in his 30s from the West Midlands area has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and is currently in police custody.

Detective Inspector Praveen Naidoo said: "One of the items stolen in the burglary is of historical significance, being a lighthouse lantern dating back to the mid to late 1800s and is valued close to £1m."

Sergeant Dave Thubron, also of Devon and Cornwall Police, added: "This will be very recognisable and has possibly been moved to the West Mercia area."

High-value items were stolen after break ins across Ilfracombe between January 23 and January 25 including at a business park, a storage facility and a memorial hall. A truck stolen during the raid was recovered on the M5 by the Highways Agency.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 or email 101@dc.police.uk.