Prize-winning violinist leaves 300 year old instrument on train – before another passenger nicks it
Heartbroken musician offers reward for safe return of her violin worth several hundred thousands of pounds after it was taken from luggage rack
A PROFESSIONAL musician is heartbroken after her 300-year-old violin was taken by a stranger when she accidentally left it on the train.
Jane Gordon, 37, is appealing for the safe return of her prized possession after a member of the public nicked it when she left it in the luggage rack on a train from London Waterloo on Monday evening.
The instrument, worth hundreds of thousands of pounds, was removed by a passenger from the rack at Queenstown Road Station at about 6:50pm - three hours after Jane got off the train at St Margaret's near Richmond-upon-Thames.
The talented musician is offering a reward for its return as she is due to play in the prestigious Proms concerts next week.
Jane said: "I would like the violin back.
"I am due to play in the Proms concerts next week.
"I have had it for about four years and it's like a member of my family, and the sound it makes is like a human voice.
"It is old and holds a lot of sentimental value to it.
"I am willing to offer a reward for the instrument if it is found.
"Please return it safely."
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The violin is a Maggini and was stored in a black case with “Gewa” on the side. There’s a pouch on the outside of it which contains a blank envelope with strings inside labelled La Folia.
It has a distinctive wooden chin rest, a pouch containing asthma medication and four bows, including two which are unusual.
BTP investigating officer Detective Constable Anthony Steaman said: "I am keen to speak to the two people in the CCTV images as I believe they may have vital information that could help with the investigation.
"Anyone with any information should contact British Transport Police as soon as possible citing the reference number below.
"I would urge anyone who may have the instrument to hand it into their local police station."
The reference number is 1600044432 and you can contact the BTP
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