Cop wrecks queen's art
2004-08-16 08:21
London - A policeman has damaged a 19th century painting belonging to Queen Elizabeth II after losing his balance while closing a window, police and Buckingham Palace sources said on Sunday.
The painting was by a little-known 19th century artist called Morley.
"At 20:30 on August 10 a police officer accidentally damaged a painting at St James's Palace while carrying out routine duties," Scotland Yard said.
He had stood on a chair to close a window and lost his balance. He grabbed the curtains, then toppled to the floor.
On picking himself up he saw a gaping hole in the picture.
"There will be no action taken against the officer because it was an accident," police said.
The palace is an official residence of Prince Charles.
- AFP