POLICE have launched a search to find thieves who stole over £50,000 worth of wine from a luxury New Forest hotel.

The burglars broke into the cellar of five-star Lime Wood Hotel, Lyndhurst, and left the premises with a large number of “high value” wines.

According to the hotel, around 80 bottles were stolen during the incident, which hold a book value of £65,000.

A spokesperson for Lime Wood Hotel said: “There was a theft of high value wines from Lime Wood.

“The appropriate authorities have been alerted and a police investigation is underway.

“Approximately 80 bottles have been taken with a book value of around £65,000.”

Now, Hampshire Police are asking members of the public to get in touch with them if they are offered bargain prices of high quality wine.

They also urge anyone who has information about the theft to contact them.

It comes after New Forest officers posted the incident on social media, asking people to share the appeal further.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “Over £50,000 worth of wine has been stolen from the Lime Wood hotel in Lyndhurst.

“Thieves broke into the hotel’s cellar just after 3.30am on Sunday 10th November.

“If you are offered any high quality wine at a bargain price or if you have any information about this theft, please call 101 and quote the crime number 44190405894.”