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The theft, which was caught on CCTV, took place at the end of the fair as stallholders were packing up during the sudden torrential downpour.

Organiser Alan Kipping told the Antiques Trade Gazette: “We had briefed our stewards about the previous incident at Kempton Park on April 13 and had already escorted a known pickpocket out of the building. Unfortunately these criminals are apparently selecting their targets and operating in gangs. All traders need to take extra precautions.”