TWO monkeys have been stolen from an animal park in the Cotswolds.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the break in at Cotswold Wildlife Park, near Burford, which happened overnight on Monday.

The female squirrel monkeys were taken after offenders forced their way into the enclosure.

PC Simon Towers, Thames Valley Police Wildlife Officer, said: "This is a highly unusual crime - there has not been a similar theft of a monkey nationally since 2006.

"We are very concerned about their welfare – they have a highly specialised diet and would be severely traumatised by the experience so we need to recover them as soon as possible.

"If anyone saw any suspicious vehicles or people in the vicinity of the park, which is accessed from the A361 south of Burford, then please let us know.

"I would also like to advise the public that while they might be cute-looking animals, they are wild, may be frightened and could easily bite someone.

"If you do see them, do not attempt to approach them but contact the police immediately or the park directly on 01993 823 006."

PC Towers can also be contacted via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8505505.