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Figurines from a Christmas Nativity scene were stolen from a Woodside corner sometime between New Year's Eve and New Year's Day and community members are hoping someone knows where they are or feels moved to return them, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office.

Thieves stole figurines including Joseph, the Virgin Mary, Baby Jesus, kings, shepherds and farm animals from the set, which has occupied the corner of Canada Lane and Woodside Road during the holidays for the past several years, according to sheriff's spokeswoman Rebecca Rosenblatt.

The figurines, each around 20 to 30 inches tall, are worth a total of about $1,600. However, Ms. Rosenblatt noted that they also have great sentimental and nostalgic value for community members, some of whom banded together years ago to purchase them.

The theft was not made public earlier because the owners were hoping the thieves would have a change of heart and return them, she said.

The theft has triggered an outpouring of support from the community, including offers of money to help replace the figurines, sheriff's officials said.

Anyone who has information about the theft or the current whereabouts of any of the figurines is asked to call sheriff's Detective Bridget Hensley at (650) 363-4051 or the anonymous tip line at (800) 457-2700.

— Bay City News Service

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