THIEVES are thought to be behind the mysterious disappearance of an iron door handle which is more than 100 years old.

This beautiful cast iron handle has been part of the old lifeboat station at Penlee Point, Mousehole since it was built in 1912.

A spokesman said: "Countless Penlee Lifeboat coxswains and crew members have turned it over the years - but now it’s gone missing, presumed stolen!

"We would love to see the handle returned to Penlee, it’s part of our lifeboat history and we want it back!"

The organisation started a #toohottohandle hashtag yesterday morning after the discovery was made.