FATHER Christmas has been stolen, along with one of his reindeers.

The two illuminated festive displays were taken from the lawn outside Knaresborough Town Council between 8.30pm and 10.30pm on Thursday, November 26.

The Father Christmas display is about 4ft tall with waving arms while the reindeer is slightly smaller. Both are made of acrylic and illuminated with fairy lights.

The transformer used to power the lights was not taken, making the stolen displays difficult to switch on.

"Their theft has caused upset in the community," said a spokesman for North Yorkshire Police.

"Enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible for the heartless theft, and return the display to its rightful location." The displays are loaned each year to the town council and are a popular fixture outside its Knaresborough House headquarters on the High Street.

Anyone with information is asked to call the force on 101, select option 2 and ask for the Harrogate Investigation Hub; or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote reference number 12150210526.