AN elderly couple spoke of their devastation last night after burglars stole family heirlooms worth thousands from their home.

The raid took place in Vindomora Road, Ebchester, near Consett, County Durham, between 10.50am and 12.15pm on Sunday, while former church warden Robert Hurst and his wife, Jean, were at church.

The crooks broke in and smashed the burglar alarm to shut it off. In less than an hour- and-a-half, they made off with more than 40 antiques and collectables.

The haul included family heirlooms and gifts from family and friends that held sentimental value for the couple.

The thieves also stole £100 from money boxes put aside for the couple's grandchildren and a stereo Mr Hurst had bought as a present for his wife, who celebrates her birthday today.

Mr Hurst, a former superintendent at the Rolls Royce plant in Gateshead, said: "We are insured, but no amount of money can replace these items and their sentimental value to us."

Pieces stolen include a 175-year-old silver tea-set, a dark oak Edwardian pendulum clock, a lady's pistol and a curved sword with a carved oak cover.

The burglars packed the haul, which also included a collection of 18 Royal Doulton character jugs, in duvet covers and pillowcases taken from the property.

Detective Constable Sharon Flannery, of Derwentside CID, said: "The occupants are devastated by their loss. The house is on a busy main road and the burglary took place on a Sunday morning. Somebody must have seen a vehicle parked either on the drive, or close to the house."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Con Flannery at Consett police station, on (01207) 504204.