A FAMILY has been left traumatised after thieves burgled a man's home as he was at his wife's funeral.

Thieves struck on Friday when Ian Colpitts was at his wife Marjorie's funeral.

The family returned home to find the property had been ransacked and treasured belongings were missing.

The burglars also ruined wedding items stored for daughter Tracey's wedding the following day.

Funeral flowers and sympathy cards had been swept aside as the thieves ransacked the house in Grangetown, near Middlesbrough.

Mother-of-four Mrs Colpitts, 48, died after she was diagnosed with cancer in January.

Mrs Colpitts, who worked with handicapped youngsters, spent her final days at home with her husband and her children.

Daughter Tracey, 26, had brought forward her wedding in the hope that her mother could attend, but she died at home in Mr Colpitts' arms six days before the big day.

He said: "I hope the person that has done this can live with themselves. They have spoilt everything; the memories of her and everything.

"At first I thought the cat had been at the window because the blinds were on the floor.

"Then I went into the front room and everything was scattered around. Some of the funeral flowers were still in there.

"The whole family was traumatised."

The family found the patio door lock had been smashed and the kitchen window had been removed.

Mrs Colpitts' handbag, jewellery and watch had been stolen and the wedding cake and tiaras trashed.

They took her engagement ring, an eternity ring and a family heirloom as well as her collection of necklaces and bracelets.

Mr Colpitts, 50, said: "If anyone knows anything about the jewellery, please bring it back or get in touch with the police."

A police spokeswoman said inquiries were ongoing.

Anyone with information has been asked to call 01642-326326.

* A 24-year-old woman was yesterday charged with burglary in connection with the incident. The unnamed woman will appear in court on Friday.