DO you recognise these rifles?

The two weapons were found at a disused piggery at Michelmersh by the land owner.

Police believe the rifles, which were wrapped in a piece of carpet, may have been stolen and hidden by the thief.

The rifles, believed to be antiques, are muzzle-loading, hammer action weapons which both measure 5ft 6ins in length. One was made by Thomas Turner and the other by Greener.

One has a plate on the stock bearing a faint inscription believed to be “First Wilts Rifle Volunteers”.

Investigating officer, PC Stacey Kirby, said: “We believe these rifles probably were stolen and hidden. But they were found before they could be collected.

“If anyone recognises the rifles, we would like to hear from them.”

PC Kirby can be contacted at Romsey Police station, on 101.