An appeal has been launched to find the owner of a gold-coloured pocket watch.

The Swiss-made piece was found in a garden of a house in Waldridge Road, in Chester-le-Street.

The inscription on the back says it belonged to E.J. Hurkett, who was awarded the watch in 1965, after 25 years service for F. Rendell and Sons Ltd.

Anyone who may know the owner should contact reporter Adrian Worsley, on (01207) 280613.