THIEVES struck at the Village Green Festival, stealing items including a custom guitar belonging to headline act Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly.

After Saturday’s festival show, Sam Duckworth, who used to perform under the stage name Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly, posted on the Twitter website: “My Avalon l25 Custom was taken from the stage in Southend.

Please look out for it if you're local.

“In a separate incident @MikeyGlenister’s cornet was also stolen. I’ll find out the make and model, but it's in a Gcwcf case.

“We use those instruments for our living. We love them and need them. Stealing them is not on. I played that guitar at every show since 2006. Used it on every album for seven years. Whoever stole it better love it.”

However, Duckworth was full of praise for the festival and its organisation, adding: “It should also be noted this is not a reflection on an excellent #VillageGreen - well organised and great community spirit.”

Cabaret performer Lili La Scala was also the vicitim of thieves, who stole a small vintage wooden chair, with a blue woven seat from her tent as was Old Trunk Theatre’s sign.

Police have issued an appeal for information about the thefts and asked anybody with information to call 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.