AFTER Edward Elgar medals were stolen Worcester schoolchildren were so sad they found a unique way to replace them.

The children from Perrywood Primary school were on a visit to Elgar’s Birthplace Museum at Lower Broadheath when they heard about the theft in the summer, when burglars broke in and stole the medals.

The burglary happened at 1.45am on June 27, with the unknown perpetrators gaining access to the cottage at The Firs, Elgar’s Birthplace. The medals stolen included the composer’s Grand Cross of The Royal Victorian Order, Breast Star and accompanying Badge with Sash.

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To date, despite a reward for information, their whereabouts have not come to light. After the theft Michael Smith, National Trust general manager for the South Worcestershire Portfolio said: “The items that have been taken are key elements of our display and are of national significance. It is of paramount importance that we get these returned, they are irreplaceable.”

The birthplace’s house steward Joe Tierney said: “As soon as the children heard of the theft they set about designing their own versions of the medals.

“They were so good, that we decided to put them on display in the glass case from where the originals were stolen, and they have become a popular feature for visitors.

“While we are devastated that the originals were stolen, we are very pleased that we have these ‘replacements’ – which show how much our children care about such things.”

Elgar’s Birthplace Museum, known as The Firs, showcases a comprehensive collection of original artefacts associated with the composer. Since 2017 it has been in the care of the National Trust. For more details visit nationaltrust.org.uk/the-firs.