A man has been charged with stealing antique horticultural books from a world-famous library.
William Jacques, 40, a former Cambridge University student, allegedly stole 13 volumes worth £50,000 from the Royal Horticultural Society's London library.
They were 13 volumes of "Nouvelle Iconographies des Camellias" by 19th century Belgian author Ambroise Verschaffelt valued at approximately £50,000 and the books contained an array of colored images of the Camellia flower, as well as explanatory text.
Police say that none of the books have ever been traced and are appealing for anybody with information to come forward.
The Royal Horticultural Society's Lindley Library, in Vincent Square, central London, is among the best in the world. It holds books, journals, pictures and art on practical gardening, garden history, garden plants and design dating back to 1514.