Widow of Olympian Richard Meade Appeals for Return of Stolen Gold Medals

The family residence of Richard Meade, recognized as one of Britain’s most accomplished male equestrians, has been targeted by burglars, resulting in the theft of two Olympic gold medals. These medals were earned by Meade at the 1972 Olympic Games held in Munich, and were taken from a property situated near Marshfield, in south Gloucestershire. Law enforcement officials estimate the burglary occurred between October 29 and November 1. In addition to the medals, several items of jewellery, antiques, and trophies were also removed from the premises. Angela Meade, Richard’s widow, stated that the medals possess “a special place” within the family’s affections, particularly following his passing in 2015. She further commented, “We are all extremely proud of his achievements as an event rider, and whilst the medals are of very little monetary value, they are priceless to us.” Meade appealed, stating, “I would plead for anyone who knows the whereabouts of the medals to hand them in to the police.” This incident marks the second occasion these medals have been stolen; they were previously taken from a vehicle in the 1980s but were recovered following a public appeal through the media. On that prior occasion, the medals were discovered hidden in a public location after authorities received information regarding their whereabouts. One of the medals had sustained partial scratching, which indicated it was not composed of solid gold, thus confirming its negligible intrinsic material worth. Detective Inspector Danielle Underwood, representing Avon and Somerset Police, confirmed that officers have conducted forensic and CCTV investigations and interviewed local residents. She commented, “These items are understandably of huge sentimental importance to the victims, and they are extremely anxious for them to be returned.” Underwood added, “Any burglary can have a devastating impact on victims – not only is there a financial or sentimental impact, but it can also make people feel unsafe in their own homes.” Meade, a native of Chepstow, Monmouthshire, was recognized as one of Britain’s most accomplished Olympic equestrians, holding the distinction of being a triple Olympic gold medallist and the first British rider to secure an individual Olympic title. Beyond the two Olympic gold medals obtained in Munich, he also earned an Olympic gold in Mexico in 1968, alongside five World Championship medals. Authorities are urging anyone who may have observed any of the stolen articles, witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity, or possesses any information pertinent to the investigation, to contact them. BBC Bristol can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. This material is copyrighted by BBC, 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC states it is not accountable for the content of external sites and provides details on its approach to external linking.