Cannon theft hits Tipton Canal Festival
It is was the key feature of the pirate boat - a handmade cannon pointing out toward the canal.
But the fake weapon was stolen from Heidi Manning's famous Pirate Boat ahead of Tipton's Canal and Community Festival.
Moored next to the Fountain Inn, off Owen Street, it was taken last Wednesday night.
Former teacher Ms Manning, aged 43, said: "It is such a shame.
"I come to Tipton every year to enjoy the festival and share the pirate theme, people are so nice here.
"But then you have one person who decides to destroy that by taking the cannon.
"I have no idea what they would use it for."
The cannon was made in Conwy in Wales. The metal item sits on a wooden base.
As well as providing decoration for the front of the boat, children like their picture taken with it at events.
Ms Manning said: "The cannon which was a hand made commission is pretty unique and one of a kind, it is The Pirate Boat's pride and joy and we feel pretty lost without it."
Anyone who finds the cannon can call Ms Manning, who is from Cheshire, on 07899 955695.
