Detectives are appealing for witnesses after a house in Colchester was broken into and around £1,000 worth of jewellery was stolen.

The break-in at Margaret Road happened sometime between 7pm and 11pm on Thursday.

Thieves smashed their way into the property via the rear patio doors and helped themselves to a large amount of jewellery, which has sentimental attachments for the owner.

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have seen anybody acting suspiciously in the area at the time.

Anybody with any information is asked to contact Dc Mark Peacock at Colchester CID on Essex Police 101.

People can also leave details – anonymously if required – by calling independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.