A brazen theft unfolded on a busy Edinburgh street, leaving a festive landmark missing and a community bewildered. Nolan, a towering eight-foot nutcracker statue, vanished in broad daylight, snatched from outside the Copper Blossom bar on George Street.
The audacious act was captured on CCTV, revealing a thief approaching on an electric bike. In a matter of minutes, he dismantled the bar’s carefully arranged outdoor furniture, pushing tables aside and even toppling one, all to reach his unusual target.
Witnesses watched in disbelief as the thief wrestled with the 13kg statue, initially falling from his bike in the attempt to secure it. He eventually managed to balance Nolan horizontally across the small e-bike, creating a precarious and comical sight.
Despite the absurdity of the scene, the theft was swift and determined. The thief made a slow, unsteady escape with his oversized prize, seemingly unnoticed by many passersby who continued about their day.
The Copper Blossom team is heartbroken by Nolan’s disappearance, especially as he stood alongside his companion, Nelson. They are now pleading for Nolan’s safe return, hoping to reunite the pair and restore their beloved Christmas display.
Every year, the bar’s elaborate festive decorations, inspired by 17th-century traditions, draw crowds eager to capture the perfect holiday photo. The loss of Nolan disrupts a cherished local tradition and leaves a void in the seasonal spirit.
Police Scotland has confirmed an investigation is underway, reviewing the CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator and recover the stolen statue. The case remains in its early stages, but authorities are determined to bring the thief to justice.
Manager Paul Paxton described the scene as surreal, noting the speed of the theft and the nonchalant reaction of some onlookers. He recounted how the team had just secured the outdoor furniture moments before the incident, making the timing of the theft particularly shocking.
Nelson, Nolan’s remaining companion, has been moved indoors for safekeeping, a poignant reminder of the missing statue and the disruption to the festive display. The bar hopes for a swift resolution and the return of Nolan to his rightful place.
