Historic statues stolen from Miltown Castle located on the outskirts of Limerick city

GARDAI have recovered four limestone statues which were stolen a castle near the Limerick – Cork border almost eight years ago.

The four large statues were stolen from Milltown Castle, Charleville on July 18, 2011.

Two were statues of eagles which has been mounted on 10 foot pillars and the others were life size busts of William of Orange and Oliver Cromwell.

An extensive garda investigation was carried out at the time but the property was never found.

However, late last week a member of the public found four stone statues near a derelict outhouse on lands near Cratloe in County Clare.

“The Gardaí were contacted and a local garda remembered the original theft and connected the discovery of the property with the theft,” said a garda spokesperson who confirmed the statues were recovered on February 8.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information about the theft or who has information about how the property ended up on the lands.

Gardai at Mallow are investigating and can be contacted on (022) 31450.