MYSTERY surrounds the disappearance of presidential chains of office this week after a search to recover them proved futile.

Carole Bailey, president of the Inner Wheel Club, Marlow, removed her chains as she rushed to help a member with a weak heart who had collapsed during a meeting last month.

As a professional nurse, Mrs Bailey didn't think twice about taking off the 45-year-old presidential chains, and supporting the man until an ambulance arrived.

But when Mrs Bailey needed the chains for a function a couple of days later, they were nowhere to be found.

She said: "I was kneeling on the floor and the collar was very heavy so I put it on the table and I haven't seen it since."

The meeting was held at T J O'Reilly's in Marlow Bottom, but staff have been unable to find the missing chains. The incident has also been reported to the police.

The chains will cost £500 to replace, but are worth more in sentimental value as they bear the names of 43 past presidents.

Mrs Bailey said: "It means such a lot to the club as some of the people whose names are on it have since died. It's our most valuable item."

The collar is blue with 43 brass nameplates attached. The medallion at the bottom is inscribed "The Inner Wheel, Marlow".

Call Marlow Police Station on (01628) 816920 with information.