POLICE are appealing for help to trace distinctive items of jewellery stolen from a house in Frenchay.

Some of the pieces were engraved with specific names and dates and police want to hear from anyone who has been offered such items for sale.

It is not clear when the jewellery was taken from the Frenchay property but it is believed to have been stolen between Thursday, January 9 and Wednesday, January 22 2014.

The more distinctive items include a mourning ring in yellow metal with slanting bands, each inset with three pearls, alternating with black bands, with the words "In Memorium"' in yellow metal and a black enamel leaf design on the shoulder.

There was also an oblong birth brooch with locks of hair surrounded by a scroll-patterned frame, engraved on the back with "Viscount Trafalgar born July 19th 1854, Alice born July 9 1846, Constance born Febry 16 1848, Edith born January 7 1850, Mary born Oct 5 1852”.

Also missing is a gold-plated mourning brooch of hair inside an oblong frame with a shield design black enamel surround, engraved on the back "In memory of Matthew Wingrave who died 3rd June 1846, aged 26. Mother July 22/07."

Other items stolen included a ring set with five turquoise stones, a ring set with a single oblong garnet, a mourning brooch of hair and agate, a silver fob watch and a silver locket containing a photograph and a coin.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Rob Cainey said: "While we're seeing fewer burglaries and South Gloucestershire is a safe place to live, thieves do seem to be targeting jewellery, which often has great sentimental value to the owners.

“We'd recommend keeping precious pieces in a safe. It's also a good idea to keep photographs and descriptions of your jewellery and other valuables.

“You can find more home security advice on our website, www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or call the neighbourhood team on 101."

Anyone who has seen jewellery items matching the description for sale, or who has any other information which could help enquiries, is asked to call 101 quoting reference 7512/14 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.