Unique Victorian art work has been stolen from a Wandsworth museum.

The De Morgan Centre, a museum inside West Hill Library, West Hill, was burgled at 1.30am on Sunday.

Police believe the culprit or culprits broke into the centre, which holds an extensive collection of 19th century art and crafts ceramics, through a bathroom window.

Once inside a glass cabinet containing expensive plates and jugs was smashed and the contents stolen.

The pieces, by William De Morgan, included a red and gold lustre dish of a snake wrapped around the body of a winged dragon.

Also stolen were a red and gold lustre dish decorated with three peacocks, and a two handled lustre urn illustrated with snakes and cherubs playing musical instruments.

Damaged ceramics were found at the scene.

Detective Sergeant Neil Philpott, the investigating officer, said: "A man was seen loitering outside the building and we are appealing for any information that can help us trace him or the people responsible for this. The ceramics belong in a museum for the public to see, so we need your help to return them to their rightful place."

Anyone with information should call 020 8247 8748 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111