Muggers snatch £15,000 violin

A musician is in shock after two muggers snatched his rare £15,000 violin.

Police say the Gustaf Bernadell instrument has huge sentimental value to the 57-year-old retired violinist. They are calling on music experts and instrument makers to contact them.

The man was robbed in Cooks Road, Walworth, as he carried the violin in a case on his shoulder. The robbers got into a car on Otto Street and drove towards Elephant and Castle.

Pc Nishit Doshi, of Walworth police, said: "The victim is very shocked. The violin is of great sentimental value. I am appealing to anyone who may have seen the incident, and would also like to hear from musical instrument shops.

"Has anyone tried to sell you a violin or bows? Any expert would recognise such a rare instrument."

He said the dark red violin and two bows had been inside a blue case. The violin had been repaired using four small black ebony pins on the front and back at each corner.

The crime took place at about 8.30am on 11 January. The suspects both wore woolly hats. Ring police on 020-7232-6267.