£2000 worth of jewellery stolen from elderly couple in Ditchling

Police said a man, in his 90s, had been in his garden in Brangwyns Acre when he was approached by two men who started talking to him about antiques.

After a short conversation the men entered the property uninvited and went upstairs where they took a handful of jewellery.

The jewellery is believed to be worth around £2,000 and consisted of rings, broaches and necklaces.

The couple reported the theft to their daughter when she returned from holiday and the offence is believed to have taken place on either August 25 or 26, officers added.

Detective constable Andrew Smith said: “The men have been described as in their 30s and smartly dressed. We are interested in anyone who saw some men matching this description, acting suspiciously in the village or spoke to anyone about antiques is asked to get in touch.

“This has been very distressing for this couple as the men came into the house uninvited. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on [email protected] quoting serial 868 of 02/09.”