Horsham pensioner hears burglar in her home

The victim left her home in Bartholomew Way, Horsham, at about 10.30am on Monday 16 September to visit nearby shops but returned half an hour later to find an intruder in her home.

While the 81-year-old was downstairs she heard someone running down the stairs and then her front door slamming. She looked out of her window and saw a teenager running away.

The teenager turned left when he ran out of the house and along Bartholomew Way before turning left towards the parade of shops.

The jewellery stolen included an engagement ring, an aquamarine gold band ring and a gold bracelet with the words “Everlasting love” and “Jim” on it.

The thief is described as white, about 17, 5’9” and slim. He had light mousey hair and was dressed all in black.

Detective Constable Andrew Robinson said: “The offender ran out into the street and escaped so I believe someone must have seen him.

“They may not have realised that anything was wrong so I would urge anyone that saw a teenager running in the area at the time to contact us.

“The thief may have waited for the victim to go out and she has been left very shaken by the incident. If you have been offered any of the items that were stolen please get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 466 of 16 September or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.