MYSTERY surrounds the whereabouts of two of Notts County's most cherished pieces of silverware.

Magpies chairman John Armstrong-Holmes has told the Post he has not seen the club's 1989/90 Third Division and 1990/91 Second Division replica play-off trophies since taking up his position at Meadow Lane in September last year..

Mr Armstrong-Holmes said: "They've disappeared. I've asked Derek Pavis [ex-Notts County chairman] and he did not know where they were.

"We need to know where they are and get them back."

Mr Pavis, whose 15-year tenure as chairman included the club's play-off successes, said: "I've only been made aware of their disappearance in the last few weeks. In 2005 the club was in turmoil and went into administration. They may have been taken at that time.

"Notts County don't win many trophies. It's heartbreaking. Everyone is so proud of them.

Mr Armstrong-Holmes has not as yet reported to Notts police the disappearance of the trophies, which follow an incident three years ago when the club's Anglo Italian Cup (1994/5 - beating Ascoli 2-1 in the final) and 1997/98 Third Division Championship trophy were stolen and then returned.

Magpies supporters have been shocked to learn of the latest disappearance of trophies associated with one of the most successful and exciting periods in the club's history.

Iris Smith, chairman of Notts County Supporters Trust, said: "It's very sad to hear they have gone missing. It's sad for the club and sad for the players who played in those finals.

"Those wins were among the highlights of being a Notts County fan. They were among our ten years of good fortune.

"There were many comings and goings from the club during the takeover period. People were coming in and having a look round all the time.

"Anyone who has information on where they are should contact the club."

Notts County's security consultant Bob Davey, who is investigating the missing trophies, said: "The play-off trophies were always kept in the board room along with the other ones.

"The club holds many hospitality events in there, attended by many people.

"It's a real mystery as to who's taken them."

guy.woodford@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk