Two men have been arrested in connection with the brazen theft of the Brunel statue.

The 8ft solid bronze statue, which is of local, historical importance and worth around £30,000, disappeared from its plinth overnight on Sunday.

Police have now arrested two men on suspicion of theft and have released them on bail while investigations continue.

The men have not been named and the statue has not been recovered.

Earlier this week police said lifting equipment must have been used to remove the statue intact from its mountings.

Neyland county councillor Simon Hancock said he was deeply concerned for the landmark.

The statue was unveiled by HRH the Prince of Wales in July 1999, just weeks after renowned sculptor Robert Thomas died.

The statue was commissioned by the town with considerable fundraising and sponsorship.

It was placed on the site of the old Neyland railway station with Brunel facing west, towards the USA.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area around the time of the theft, or who may have any information which may assist the investigation is asked to contact Milford Haven CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.