'Herbie' car theft: Locomotive models taken from Lymington layby
A man who had £2,000 worth of locomotive models stolen from the back of his Herbie-lookalike car has spoken of his upset.
Alan Horwood, 46, from Brighton, broke down in his 1968 Volkswagen Beetle on an eastbound A31 layby near Lymington, Hampshire.
The theft took place as he walked to a petrol station to get help.
"The experience was distressing and shook my faith in human nature," Mr Horwood said.
"I was disappointed that someone would take advantage of a stranger's misfortune."
The vehicle was painted to resemble the car Herbie from the 1968 film The Love Bug. Mr Horwood was hoping to sell the items to pay for its continued upkeep.
Three models were taken when it was broken into between 14:00 BST and 15:00 BST on 31 May.
They were a Great Western Railway Manor Class "Cookham Manor" 7808, valued at £1,200, and a Heljan Hjmek H D7018 and H D7040, both valued at £400.
PC Ian Cross said Hampshire Constabulary was looking for witnesses.
"The Volkswagen is distinctive because of the Herbie livery, and the locomotives are valuable collectable items," he said.
"Has anyone seen them offered for sale locally or in specialist magazines? If so, please get in touch with me."