28/08/2003

Getaway car used in da Vinci theft recovered

Police believe they have found the getaway car used by thieves who stole a Leonardo da Vinci masterpiece worth £25 million from a castle in Scotland yesterday.

Four men made off with the painting yesterday afternoon after posing as visitors at Drumlanrig Castle in the Highlands.

The car which the thieves used to make their escape – a white Volkswagen Golf GTI – was found abandoned in woods close to the castle. Forensics tests are being carried out on the vehicle.

The painting, known as the Madonna with the Yarnwinder, dates from around 1510 and belongs to the Duke of Buccleuch's family, who own the castle on the Queensberry Estate.

The Earl of Dalkeith, son of the Duke of Buccleuch, said: "The theft of such a wonderful work of art has shocked our family deeply and the people who work at Drumlanrig. Regardless of the painting's value, the theft is particularly distressing as the painting has been in our family for more than 200 years.

"Moreover, it is a work of art that is enjoyed by the general public who visit Drumlanrig in their thousands year after year.

"We are utterly dismayed by this theft and appeal for any information that may help recover a painting that means so much to our family and to those who appreciate art and heritage."

(gmcg)

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