BURGLARS made off with jewellery worth more than £2,360 when they raided a Sidmouth house.

Detectives believe culprits stuffed their haul of pearls and gold into a pillow case which they also took from the property in Knowle Drive.

Some of the items were later recovered nearby by police who are appealing for information.

Criminals struck between 1pm and 2.15pm last Monday, March 4, and entered the property by damaging a rear window.

The haul included several pairs of pearl earrings, both white and black pearls, a string of white, irregular, oblong-shaped pearls with silver screw clasp, matching black pearl necklace and bracelet and a pink pearl necklace.

A small, gold circle brooch set with tiny pearls, silver oval engraved locket on a chain, five sets of cufflinks - including a very old gold oblong pair with small chain - 18ct gold ring with rectangular set carat diamond and Celtic gold ring were also taken.

Crooks also stole a pink pearl, three-strand bracelet, an unusual Japanese digging tool with a four to six-inch serrated blade, and six assorted bow ties.

Det Con Ware said some of the jewellery and the pillow case taken from the house – presumably used to carry stolen items – were later found in Peak Hill Road, near the Manor Road car park.

Det Con Ware urged anyone who has been offered jewellery matching the descriptions or who saw anything suspicious, to contact Honiton CID on 101, extension 2609. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crime reference: KS/13/110.