A shocking raid on a bereaved husband's home has moved an anonymous donor to put up a £1,000 reward to catch the callous culprits.

Nigel Draper had left his home in Chilton, County Durham, this week, to spend time with his family in London, to try to come to terms with the devastating loss of his wife.

Joanne, 31, lost her battle against cancer last month.

But on Thursday thieves broke into their marital home and ransacked it, taking electrical goods, Joanne's jewellery and even £200 that had been set aside for her gravestone.

Police said the crime was made even more shocking by the fact that sympathy cards would have been clearly visible to the thieves.

The theft has appalled one man to such an extent that he has put up a £1,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that will lead to the conviction of the criminals.

The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: "I hope this will lead to the conviction because it's such a dirty, low-life trick. It's appalling."

Anyone who has any information is asked to ring Spennymoor police station on (01388) 814411.