A "DESPICABLE" burglar stole jewellery from an elderly couple, both in their 90s, while they attended hospital.

The offender broke into the house on Roman Road, Basingstoke, between 7am and 10.50pm on Thursday 23 March.

Once inside the burglar went through personal belongings and took various items of jewellery Police say the couple were out of the home while the wife, aged 90, underwent surgery.

Her husband, 91, was also in the hospital to provide support.

Police are now appealing for information about the crime, which PC Peter Piotrowski as "despicable".

He said: "I would like to speak to anyone who was in the Roman Road area on Thursday.

"It's possible that someone saw the offender or offenders in the area at some point during the day or evening.

"If you saw or heard anything suspicious between these times, please call us and help us find the person or people responsible."

Anyone with information should contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44170109376.