Roxy Cowan, 65, and her husband Ray, 78, moved into a sheltered accommodation block of flats in Lee-on-the-Solent.

The couple have since turned their shared garden in Spring Court, Spencer Drive, into an idyllic paradise for residents to enjoy.

Mr and Mrs Cowan have spent hundreds of pounds on the garden makeover and its feature pieces, a stone-cut statue and two-piece bird bath.

But the couple are devastated after the two items were stolen on Thursday night.

Mrs Cowan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago, said: 'It's so upsetting. After I had major surgery for my cancer, doctors told me I wouldn't use my left arm again but I was determined to stay active. I wanted to do up the garden to do something to exercise my arm. After two years, I have got full use of my arm again and I was feeling very well.

'But this has just knocked me right back.

The police are appealing for information about the crime to help them investigate.

Anyone who knows who stole the items, or knows of their whereabouts, is asked to call police on 0845 045 45 45.