Widow of Olympian Richard Meade appeals for return of gold medals

Two Olympic gold medals have been stolen from the household residence of considered one of Britain’s most profitable male equestrians.

The medals have been gained by Richard Meade through the 1972 Olympic Video games in Munich and brought after burglars broke right into a property close to Marshfield, in south Gloucestershire.

Police consider the theft occurred between 29 October and 1 November, with a number of items of jewelry, antiques and trophies additionally taken.

Angela Meade, Richard’s spouse, stated the medals maintain “a particular place” within the hearts of the entire household after his dying in 2015.

“We’re all extraordinarily pleased with his achievements as an occasion rider, and while the medals are of little or no financial worth, they’re priceless to us,” she stated.

“I might plead for anybody who is aware of the whereabouts of the medals handy them in to the police.”

That is the second time the medals have been stolen, after they have been taken from a automotive within the Nineteen Eighties however returned after a media enchantment.

The medals have been left hidden in a public place, the authorities have been tipped off about there whereabouts. One of many medals had been partially scratched, revealing that it was not stable gold and due to this fact of negligible materials worth.

Det Insp Danielle Underwood, from Avon and Somerset, stated officers have carried out forensic and CCTV enquiries and have spoken to individuals residing within the space.

“This stuff are understandably of giant sentimental significance to the victims, and they’re extraordinarily anxious for them to be returned,” she stated.

“Any housebreaking can have a devastating influence on victims – not solely is there a monetary or sentimental influence, however it may possibly additionally make individuals really feel unsafe in their very own houses.”

Meade, who was born in Chepstow, Monmouthshire, was considered one of Britain’s most profitable Olympic equestrians, a triple Olympic gold medallist and the primary British rider to win a person Olympic title.

In addition to the 2 Olympic gold medals gained in Munich, he additionally gained Olympic gold in Mexico in 1968, and 5 World Championship medals.

Police are encouraging anybody who has seen any of the gadgets, noticed anybody appearing suspiciously within the space or has any info which may assist the investigation to return ahead.