Post box topper stolen from South Park Avenue in Norwich

Those living in South Park Avenue near Eaton Park were left shocked when, on Saturday afternoon, a knitted post box topper appeared to have been stolen.

The topper features a back-to-school design, with knitted owls and books on top, and is located just around the corner from Colman Junior School.

Carly Weeks, who lives in the area with her daughters, was shocked to find that it had gone missing only days after it had first appeared.

The topper features some books and owls in a 'back-to-school' design (Image: Contributed)

"My girls go to Colman School and they've loved looking at it when walking past," she said.

"It is obvious that whoever stole it has never knitted or crocheted anything in their life, otherwise they would appreciate the hours of work that went into it.

"It is especially sad as Colman School has had a particularly turbulent year this past year."

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Carly last saw it on the floor in nearby Sotherton Road on Saturday night, before it vanished.

However, after news of the missing topper was spread widely on Facebook overnight, she was delighted to spot it back in place while walking her dog on Sunday morning.

The knitted design even had a note attached asking people not to remove or damage it (Image: Contributed)

"I don't know whether it has been returned or replaced," she said.

"I'm sure the person that made it said that they would make another if it wasn't found - but I hope it has been returned."

The mystery remains as to where the post box topper spent the night, with the maker - who posted anonymously on Facebook - appealing to locate the intricate piece of art.

Whether it was from the outpouring on social media or someone deciding to change their dastardly ways, South Park Avenue community is glad to see it returned.