POLICE are appealing for information after an elderly man had a box of precious belongings stolen from his home in Yate.

Two men reportedly approached the pensioner, who is in his seventies, and offered to do work on his house in Priors Lea around lunch time on Thursday, February 16.

The men then entered the property, made a hole in the ceiling, then left claiming that they would be back to finish the work.

A small box of sentimental items was then noticed missing by the pensioner, who had hoped to be buried with the contents. 

Items missing include his mother’s five-diamond engagement ring, a wedding ring and cufflinks.

Police were notified of the incident on Wednesday, February 22 after the man told his friend about it.

PC Angharad Baynham said: “I’d like to hear from anyone who noticed two men in the Priors Lea area on Thursday, February 16, who was approached for work on their home or who has any other information which could help.” 

She added: “I’d ask people to look out for their vulnerable elderly relatives, friends and neighbours.

“Make sure they have a chain or door viewer on their door so they can check who’s calling before letting them in.

“Remind them not to open the door if they’re not sure of a caller, and if they feel alarmed or threatened to call 999 straight away.”

If anyone has any information relating to the incident, get in touch online or call 101 quoting reference 5217040031.

Alternatively, ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.