Real-life Grinches stole the community Christmas tree from North Walsham town centre.

Early risers in North Walsham discovered the mean theft and mayor Bob Wright said the news was "shocking" and "disappointing". 

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He said: "Last month, the Town Council provided a Christmas Tree under our historic Market Cross.

"As well as our own decorations, a local nursery school's kids added theirs too.

"Everyone here was very shocked to find that it was stolen last night.

"Our CCTV recorded the incident but it's disappointing that not everyone shares the spirit of goodwill."

He added that the CCTV videos were "clear" and had been passed along to police. 

Commenters on social media have expressed their anger at the theft.

One wrote: "Disgusting, they should be ashamed of themselves. I hope the police catch them."

Another said they "can't believe people would stoop that low" while a third added: "Unfortunately after a few festive drinkies it seems amusing and will end up in the middle of someone's garden unexpectedly."