A WOMAN whose priceless jewellery was stolen in a house break-in yesterday told of her shock at the crime.

Josh Warwick

A WOMAN whose priceless jewellery was stolen in a house break-in yesterday told of her shock at the crime.

Burglars made off with a host of items which were both of sentimental and significant value during the raid on a house in Chapel Road, Otley.

The burglary, which took place at some point between March 18 and April 13, only came to light when the victim was unable to find an item of jewellery.

Among the pieces stolen were wristwatches, a gold ring, gold and diamond earrings, gold necklaces and chains, several gold bracelets and a blue and white dress ring.

The woman, who asked not to be named, said: “They are all personal effects which were bought for me over the last 40 years.

“When I realised what had happened, I just felt sick and in shock.

“At first, I thought I was going mad, you think you are having a senior moment, but then when I worked it out I was in complete disbelief.

“The police have told me there is a gang which is targeting jewellery.”

She estimates that the hoard of stolen items is worth several thousand pounds.

“To replace them, I'm looking at between �4,000 and �5,000,” she said.

“But it's horrible when you start putting a price against them because they were things my husband bought for me - they are of sentimental value.”

Anyone who may have information about who took the items or anyone who may have been offered similar pieces of jewellery since is asked to call Woodbridge CID on 01473 613500.