An 'irreplaceable' 105-year-old Rolls Royce has been stolen from a hotel on the eve of a vintage car expedition - as its heartbroken owner is offering a reward for its safe return.
The £300,000 1920 Silver Ghost was taken in the early hours of Thursday morning from the Orsett Hall Hotel in Essex - the night before it and another 25 Rolls Royces were due to be loaded onto the ferry at Tilbury Docks.
Now the car's heartbroken owner, Brian Fitton, is desperately trying to secure the return of his pride and joy. Together they have travelled the world for the past quarter of a century.
The 82-year-old had been looking forward to the trip for more than a year, especially after attending a dear friend's funeral just days before. He is offering £2,000 for its safe return.
Mr Fitton, of Wilmslow, Cheshire, said: 'To have the vehicle stolen ahead of dropping it off at Tilbury Docks for the ferry to Helsinki is absolutely heartbreaking.
