BURGLARS stole sentimental items of jewellery after breaking into a home in Brighton Hill by forcing open a patio door.

Police officers are appealing for witnesses to the crime in Gainsborough Road, which happened on Monday between 5am and 7.15am.

The thieves stole various watches, an engagement ring, wedding band, eternity ring, pocket watches on gold chains and bracelets.

DC Claire Nicholls, from Basingstoke police station, said: “It appears that these burglars were only interested in jewellery, as nothing else was taken. I’m appealing to anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area or heard anything unusual in the early hours of Monday morning to contact us.

“We’d also like to hear from anyone who may have been offered for sale any of these items recently or has recovered the jewellery as the owners would like to have these sentimental items returned.”

Anyone with information should contact DC Nicholls on 101, quoting 44140316049.