RAIDERS who forced their way into a village home fled from the scene with a haul of treasured family jewellery.

The burglary took place in Middleton Tyas, near Richmond, sometime between 3.15pm and 5.30pm on Monday, May 16. The thieves forced their way into a property and stole several items of jewellery.

They took gold and silver jewellery including a distinctive blue, zircon cluster ring, earrings, lockets, bracelets and a gold and silver engagement ring bought in the 1940s.

The jewellery has great sentimental value as many of the items were gifts from the victim’s late husband and late mother.

Police are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area on Monday or the days leading up to the burglary and to anyone who has been offered the blue zircon ring for sale.

Anyone with any information is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for PC Richard Grey or email Richard.grey@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

To remain anonymous, pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.