AN investigation is under way after jewellery worth almost £20,000 was stolen in a burglary.

Thieves struck at a property in Bedale Road, in Well, near Bedale, North Yorkshire, between 5.30pm and 10pm on Tuesday.

Among more than a dozen items stolen was a gold bracelet worth £3,000, a diamond-encrusted tie pin valued at £1,500 and ladies’ Gucci watch.

Officers believe that the offenders ladders to break in through a first floor window.

Police, who have been making house to house enquiries and conducting forensic examinations, are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious people or vehicles in the area at the time of the burglary to get in touch.

Detective Constable Gillian Gowling, of Northallerton CID, said: “Being burgled is a distressing experience for anyone and in this case it is particularly upsetting due to the value of the items stolen, some of which were very personal to the victims.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been offered any of the items for sale in suspicious circumstances or seen them for sale anywhere.

“I would also like to advise all home owners to be vigilant and take the necessary security steps to ensure they do not become a target for thieves.”

Witnesses are asked to call Det Con Gowling on 0845-60-60-24-7, quoting reference number 12110197887.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.