Item was gifted to victim by gran

A BRIDE-to-be has been left heartbroken after burglars stole a treasured brooch, gifted to her by her 96-year-old grandmother, that she planned to wear on her wedding day.

The item (pictured) is of little cash value, but is sentimentally priceless, said detectives investigating the break-in this week.

The brooch was among a haul worth around �3,000 stolen by criminals who forced their way into a rural home near Sidbury on Saturday, August 13.

Camera equipment, jewellery and a Meade telescope and tripod were also taken. The burglary took place in the afternoon or early evening at the property - located between Sidmouth and Honiton.

Detective Constable Steve Harrison, of Honiton CID, said the victim was willing to offer a reward if information led to the recovery of the swallow-shaped brooch.

“While it is not of great monetary value, it’s of extreme sentimental value, as it was given to the victim by her grandmother and she was due to wear it on her dress on her wedding day in just a few weeks time,” DC Harrison told the Herald.

“It’s not of great financial value. She’s really keen to get the brooch back so she can wear it on her wedding day, and is willing to pay a reward if information leads to its recovery.

“We’d be very keen to hear from anybody who thinks they might have information as to who is responsible for this crime, or anyone who might have been offered any property which matches the descriptions given.”

Anyone with information can contact DC Harrison at Honiton CID on 08452 777444 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.