A 1996-7 Arsenal football strip signed by the team at the time is among pieces of memorabilia destined for a charity auction which have been stolen. [1 August 2012]

They were being stored in a house before being auctioned for a variety of charity groups, Grampian Police said.

The items taken also include a top worn by actress Jenny McAlpine during an episode of Coronation Street.

A Valhalla Golf flag signed by the Ryder Cup team, a book signed by professional golfer Peter Alliss and a limited edition watercolour painting of Cruden Bay were also stolen.

Police are appealing for information about the theft which happened between June 13 and July 4 at a house in Rattray Road, Peterhead in Aberdeenshire.

Detective Constable Kevin MacDonald said: "This is a shameful theft of items which were aimed at raising money for charity.

"These are clearly very distinctive items, so it's possible someone may have seen them either in someone's home or for sale somewhere.

"We are appealing for the community's assistance in identifying those responsible and I would urge anyone who may have any information at all about this incident to contact us as soon as possible.

"If you wish to do that anonymously, that can be done through the independent charity Crimestoppers."

Crimestoppers is an independent charity and not part of the police. If you wish to pass on information about crime anonymously, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or fill out our anonymous online Giving Information Form.