POLICE have released images of high-value and distinctive pieces of jewellery that have been stolen from a home in Washington.

Officers were alerted to the theft at an address on Dilston Close, Oxclose, on December 17 when the occupants learnt the sentimental items had vanished.

Worth up to £10,000, the jewellery had recently been brought back from India for a family wedding and was to be passed on to the victim’s daughter.

The occupants believe the items could have been taken weeks before they discovered they had disappeared.

An investigation has been launched into the incident and officers are now appealing to the public for information.

Detective Constable Louise Edwards, of Northumbria Police, said: “These items of jewellery are worth thousands of pounds and are of significant sentimental value to the family.

“They are distinctive items of Indian jewellery, and as a result, there is a possibility that other people may have come into contact with these stolen items over the last couple of months.

“I would ask those people to come forward and give us a call – we are desperate to return the items to the family and identify those responsible for taking them in the first place.

“If anybody has been asked whether they would like to buy these items, recognises them from the photographs or have even attended auction houses and thinks similar items have been up for sale, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 152 171219 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively you can email 460@northumbria.pnn.police.uk.