Party-goers get hump over stolen camel Brian

It is probably one of the strangest and more audacious thefts City of London police have dealt with in recent times.

They are anxious to hear from anyone with information on the whereabouts of Brian, a life-size resin model of a camel, pictured. He measures about 6ft and stands out from the crowd at 30 kilos.

Valued at around £1,000, the two-humped Bactrian camel disappeared during a Christmas corporate event for a company hosting Moroccan-themed parties.

A police spokeswoman said: "He was a much-loved camel and their Moroccan nights have not been the same without him."

Brian was taken after thieves broke into a marquee outside Gibson Hall in Bishopsgate. He was hauled out and drag-marks were left in the street outside.

Police are appealing for any information on the theft, which took place between 27 and 28 December, to contact Bishopsgate CID on 020 7601 2606.