A RENOWNED historian has been left devastated after war medals, including one belonging to his great-uncle, were stolen during a burglary at his home.

Michael Richardson, a local historian, prolific author and custodian of the Gilesgate Archive, is offering a reward for information leading to the return of the Great War Victory medal, presented to William Savage, a member of the Tyneside Irish – part of the Northumberland Fusiliers.

It was stolen from Mr Richardson’s Durham City home, along with a Second World War St John Ambulance medal, between 1pm and 1.50pm on Friday, May 25.

The First World War medal, in brass, is thought to be worth about £30, while the Second World War medal, in copper, is valued at £10.

However, Mr Richardson said: “To me, the First World War medal is priceless. I couldn’t believe it. It’s such a quiet area.

“Things like this don’t happen around here – but apparently they do.”

Mr Richardson believes the thieves were looking for cash or gold, as other household items were left untouched.

Mr Savage was wounded at the Battle of the Somme, in 1916, but eventually survived the war. His medal has the date ‘1914-1919’ on one side and an angel on the reverse.

It had a multi-coloured ribbon and the title W Savage around the rim.

The St John Ambulance medal was awarded to Durham resident Gwen Bradley. It was acquired by Mr Richardson. It bears a cross and Mrs Bradley’s name.

Mr Richardson collects old photographs of Durham City and has published a range of local history books, including Durham City Through Time, Durham: Pictures From The Past and Durham City From Old Photographs.

His Gilesgate Archive has become one of the largest collections relating to Durham and its neighbourhoods.

Durham Police are investigating the theft and appealing for information. A spokeswoman said it appeared an intruder had entered the house through the back door.

She asked anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time to call Durham Police on the nonemergency number, 101.