Lost xylophones in Essex, United Kingdom
Description
I was wrapping up a youth music workshop near Colchester Library on High Street in Colchester, Essex, Essex, United Kingdom, around 7:10 p.m. last Thursday when my xylophones disappeared from the bench where I’d left them. They’re two wooden instruments with a honey-colored finish, each about the size of a soup can, and the mallets still have bright red grips. I use them for tomorrow’s session with the local kids, and the thought of starting without them makes me anxious. I’d be grateful if whoever picked them up could bring them back to the library desk; they’re essential for our class.
Approximate last-seen location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely get your item back
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the finder before meeting
- Ask them to describe a detail not shown in your listing, such as an engraving, scratch, or contents.
- Request a clear photo of the item from an angle you did not post.
- Do not pay any release, shipping, or storage fee.
- Do not share your full address until you have verified them.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.