A number of items of Indian jewellery were stolen during a burglary in Wickford.

Suspects forced entry to a home near to Beauchamps Drive by smashing a window between 1.15pm and 1.45pm on Thursday, May 31.

They carried out a messy search inside and took items of very high value, including diamond watches, gold and pearl necklaces, earrings, gold bracelets, including Swarovski bracelets, and some gold chains.

Most of the gold items stolen were between 22 and 24 carat gold.

Distinctive items taken include pendants and chains containing images of gods and goddesses from the Hindu faith and a managl sutra, a necklace that is given to a bride on her wedding day.

The victim, who wished not to be named, said: “We are devastated as most of the items stolen are of huge sentimental value to my family and are irreplaceable.

“Most of this jewellery has been passed down from my ancestors. There were many unique pieces of jewellery stolen and we would urge anyone with information to please contact police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Basildon CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/76447/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.