Thief '˜could have hidden inside house' as neighbour turned off burglar alarm

Now police are appealing for information following the burglary in Church Lane, Twineham, near Haywards Heath, in which a quantity of jewellery was stolen.

Police are hoping that people living, visiting or working in Church Lane on Thursday May 26 might recall hearing a burglar alarm or have noticed something suspicious that afternoon.

A householder had gone out leaving the property secure, but before she returned later the same day an intruder broke in, made an untidy search and stole three jewellery boxes and their contents.

An alarm was triggered shortly before 4pm but was switched off by a well-meaning neighbour who noticed nothing unusual on going into the house.

Police say that the thief might have hidden elsewhere inside the premises.

Detective Constable Jon Stadius, of the Bognor Regis Priority Crime Team, has been investigating the incident. He said: “I’m aware time has passed since the burglary occurred, but it may just be that someone recalls something that may help us fit a key piece into the jigsaw.

“I’d certainly urge anyone who may have information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward.”

“The driver of a black or dark blue Volkswagen Golf car, driven by a man and seen in Twineham Lane at the time may, for instance, be able to assist.

“And any dealers or collectors recently offered jewellery of dubious provenance are also asked to get in touch.

“Among the items stolen was a distinctive ivory necklace bearing small carved elephants, placed one on top of the other, and with a teardrop pendant, also depicting an elephant.”

Anyone with information is asked to email [email protected] phone 101, quoting serial 1497 of 26/05. Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org).