An ancient baptismal font, stolen from a 15th century church at Rathmore, Co Meath has been returned to the site.

The font was noticed missing by Office of Public Works staff last Friday.

The commercial value was estimated at tens of thousands of euro but it cannot be sold legitimately.

The National Museum of Ireland said two jeeps arrived at the site and deposited the font back where it previously stood.

Gardaí are investigating.