In a shocking violation of his rural idyll, television design icon Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen has fallen victim to a sophisticated burglary at his majestic Cotswolds manor. Thieves targeted the flamboyant presenter's home, making off with a haul of priceless antique furniture that represents both significant financial and sentimental value.
The Cotswolds Crime Scene
The incident occurred at the 15th-century Grade II listed Tudor property, which Llewelyn-Bowen shares with his wife, Jackie, and their family. Located in the picturesque village of Siddington near Cirencester, the manor has been the family's cherished home for years and features frequently on the designer's social media.
Stolen Treasures
Among the items taken were several pieces of significant antique furniture, though specific details have been withheld to aid the police investigation. The stolen goods are believed to include unique pieces that reflect Llewelyn-Bowen's distinctive baroque and maximalist design aesthetic.
Gloucestershire Police have confirmed they are investigating the burglary and have appealed to the public for information. A spokesperson stated: "We were called to a report of a burglary at a property in Siddington where a number of items were stolen. Enquiries are ongoing."
A Pattern of Rural Crime
This incident highlights growing concerns about crime targeting affluent rural areas and valuable antiques. The Cotswolds, known for its wealthy residents and historic properties, has seen several high-profile burglaries in recent years, with thieves specifically targeting art, antiques, and jewellery.
Llewelyn-Bowen's Design Legacy
The 59-year-old television personality, best known for revolutionising British interior design on the 1990s show Changing Rooms, has poured his distinctive style into the manor's restoration. The theft represents not just a financial loss but the removal of pieces integral to the home's character and the family's history.
Neighbours and fans have expressed their support for the designer, whose flamboyant personality and dedication to historic preservation have made him a beloved figure in the community. The investigation continues as police pursue several lines of enquiry.
