MACABRE thieves crept into the site of an archaeological dig under the cover of night - to steal a skull that dated back centuries.

The raiders struck at an excavation that was taking place in Malton and then escaped with the skull of someone who lived in Roman times.

The theft happened from a dig that was taking place at Old Maltongate in May but details have only just come to light.

The thieves entered the dig overnight on May 9 and removed a skull from the site which had been partially covered.

Police are now appealing for information about the theft, and in particular the identity of two men seen attending the site during the day of May 11, who asked questions about the dig and took photographs. They were seen driving a small white van with a registration similar to YO56 UZN.

A spokesperson said: "Our region was once at the heart of the Roman empire in Britain, with a major provincial capital at Eboracum, now York, and an auxiliary fort and civilian settlement at Derventio Brigantum, now Malton.

"That rich history and cultural heritage is part of the reason why it's such an attractive place to live and visit today.

"Heritage crime damages those historical assets, and the cost to our communities is often immeasurable. Our rural taskforce is continually working with partner agencies and the wider community to protect such sites, so that others can continue to enjoy them for many years to come."

Anyone with information that could assist should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for PC Mark Atkinson or email mark.atkinson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.