An Elvis Presley fan from Great Dunmow has been left devastated after burglars stole his extensive record collection in honour of The King.

Police believe the Godfrey Way resident was targeted because of his memorabilia, which officers have said was worth a five-figure sum but less than £50,000.

The break-in happened between Tuesday, November 21 and Sunday, December 3, and more than 100 Elvis records were stolen.

The victim, a man in his 70s who has asked to remain anonymous, said: “I’m totally devastated by this.

“I’ve built this collection up over many years and it means an awful lot to me.

“It is not just the monetary value of these records, they have huge sentimental value and I just want them back.

“If you have any information about this, please come forward and tell the police.”

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward, or any music dealers or collectors who may have been approached with an offer of a large collection.

Detective constable Red Leeson, investigating officer, said: “The victim has been a massive Elvis fan all his life and has been collecting records for many years.

“We believe more than 100 records have been stolen in total, many of which are extremely rare and valuable, including a collection of LPs and 78s.

“The victim has been left completely distraught as these are his prized possessions and it is a collection he has been building up over several decades.

“I believe he was targeted because of his collection.

“The person or people responsible would have needed a vehicle to transport all the records because of the amount of them taken and I believe someone must have seen or heard something.

“If you saw anything in this area which looked suspicious or if you have any information about the burglary I need to you to come forward and contact me.

“I especially want to speak to any dealers or collectors who may have been approached and offered a large collection of Elvis records.”

If you have any information contact Det con Leeson at Braintree CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.