THIEVES stole a giant helium balloon that was tethered in the region last week.

The balloon, measuring 15ft in length and 8ft in diameter, was disconnected from thick ropes that held it in position above the Towngate Distribution Centre, in Brompton-on-Swale, near Richmond, North Yorkshire.

Worth more than £2,000, the balloon had been advertising Towngate, which specialises in buying old factories and restoring them. The company had needed to get an aviation licence to fly the balloon throughout the day.

Assistant managing director Robin Gallagher said it had only been flying for a short while before it disappeared. He believes it was taken between 2pm and 4pm last Wednesday.

"While I was away, someone, or some people, managed to pull it down, puncture it and then disconnect it, and it has been done very smartly," he said.

"I just can't think why anyone would want to take it - it seems very odd."

The theft has been reported to the police. Meanwhile, Mr Gallagher is offering a £250 reward towards its recovery.