POLICE have turned to the public for help after jewellery worth thousands of pounds was stolen from a home in Thirsk.

Thieves made off with watches, rings and earrings valued at £8,650 from a property in the Castlegate area.

A pair of black Paul Smith high-heeled shoes worth £350 and a selection of perfumes valued at around £300 were also taken during the raid.

The break-in happened some overnight between June 19 and 20 but details have only just been released.

Detective Constable Jason Roper said: "For the victim to arrive home and find her house ransacked was a particularly distressing experience for her.

"Some very expensive items were stolen during the burglary as were some items of great sentimental value which the victim would very much like returned.

"If anyone saw any suspicious behaviour in the area at the time of the burglary or has been offered any of the stolen items for sale, please contact the police or Crimestoppers."

The most expensive parts of the hail were a £3,000 Breitling Cockpit ladies watch with a white face with a gold and silver strap and a diamond cluster ring set on a gold band valued at £1,400.

Other items taken included a gold wedding ring with diamonds and emeralds valued at £800 and a gold engagement ring with diamonds and emeralds also valued at £800.

Anyone with information about the burglary itself or thinks they may have been offered some of the stolen items for sale should contact DC Roper on 0845 6060 247. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.