PAINTINGS and etchings valued at £300 were stolen from an exhibition by a popular Malvern sculptor.

The unframed works were stolen from Caro Sweet's Heads and Bodies exhibition at The Gallery at Droitwich Library.

Mrs Sweet said the theft was a "shame" as the exhibition had otherwise been very well-attended and successful.

"I generally experience people as gracious and trustworthy," she said.

"However, this is my livelihood and I will now consider carefully what I put on display in future, which is a shame for the majority of perfectly honest people."

The stolen works were part of a display of more than 40 sculptures, drawings and prints that celebrate the human figure.

"It does seem rather ironic," said Mrs Sweet. "My work aims to communicate the amazing potential we all have as human beings."

While admitting it was unlikely, she still hoped her works would be found or returned.

"The stolen items are unique, so I suppose there's a chance someone may see them and recognise them," she said.

Anyone who has information regarding the missing items should contact police.