A popular Isle of Wight pub has expressed its "sadness" after an inflatable penguin Christmas decoration was stolen from its premises.

Merrie Garden, Lake, said the theft happened on Monday evening at around 7.30pm.

The incident was captured on the pub's CCTV.

Footage shows a man coming up to the inflatable before running off with it.


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Owen Wareham, supervisor, said he suspects a group of gentlemen who had been in the pub earlier in the night to be responsible.

He told the County Press the pub is giving the men one last chance to return the penguin before they report the theft to the police.

The pub said: "If anyone knows who these gentleman are it would be great if you could let them know if they can bring our decorations back that would be much appreciated."

The pub also has CCTV images of the men ready to send to police if necessary.

UPDATE 6.25pm: Pingu has been returned to the pub, unharmed.

(Image: Merrie Garden) On the Merrie Garden Facebook page, they posted: "Hi guys, we are pleased to inform you all Pingu has been returned and is back in his rightful place.

"He is now guarding our Christmas tree safe and sound, ready for Christmas.

"Thanks for everyone who came foward to help get him returned."