Police have launched a nationwide appeal to help trace 23 paintings that have been stolen from an art studio in Hertfordshire.

The collection of artwork, by Scottish painter Alan Davie, is believed to have been removed from Gamels Studio in Rush Green, Hertford, between April 2014 and April 2015 and is worth a five-figure sum.

A man has been charged with three burglaries which are alleged to have occurred at the studio between August 2014 and April 2015, and officers hope the paintings can be traced and reunited with their rightful owner.

The theft has been classed as a heritage crime, which are any offences that harm the value of the country’s assets and settings.

Detective Sergeant Lee Waller, of Hertfordshire Police, said: “Understandably the owner of these valuable paintings is keen for their return. Whilst our investigations to retrieve them are continuing, I would be very keen to hear from anyone who may have seen these items for sale, or may know of their whereabouts.

“The paintings could be anywhere in the country or further afield and I would ask people to share this appeal, particularly on social media, to help spread the message.”

Images of the artwork can be viewed on the Herts Police Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Hertspolice.

Any information regarding this theft should be reported to Herts Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.