A DIAMOND engagement ring belonging to a woman who has been married for more than 50 years has been stolen.

The ring, worth £1,000, was snatched along with more than £300 cash during a burglary of the woman and her husband's farm in Trimdon Grange.

Police said sometime between 11pm on Thursday (January 28) and 6am on Friday offenders walked across a muddy field to gain access to the farmhouse through a rear door while the couple were in.

They escaped with the jewellery and cash from the kitchen and sitting room before leaving through the same door.

Described as "very distinctive", the piece is a cross over ring set with three large diamonds surrounded by a number of smaller stones.

The total diamond weight is around 44 metric carat and the band is yellow gold, stamped with 18 carat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Alan Meehan in Durham CID on 101 or to ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.