Very rare medal and coin are stolen

The valuables were stolen from a property in Arlesey in a daylight raid.

Burglars got in to the home in Chase Close through an unsecure kitchen window and then searched the house.

They made off with a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee gold medal in a clear case.

An extremely rare silver Gibraltar Regiment coin with two flags on it was also taken, along with a mobile phone and a jar of loose change.

Detective Constable Tom Whitworth from Bedfordshire Police who is leading the investigation, would like to hear from anyone who was in Chase Close at the time of the burglary - sometime between 11.30am and 3.30pm on Thursday, October 11.

He would also like to hear from anyone who may have been offered any of the items.

If you have information relating to the burglary contact DC Whitworth, in confidence, on 01234 275397, the non-emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.

Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Bedfordshire Police have reduced burglary in the area by 20 per cent this year and are keen that the traditional winter rise in the number of break-ins does not occur.

In previous years the number of houses burgled has increased by as much as half in the winter months and police are urging the public to help.

It is known that burglars are less likely to target homes that are occupied.

So making sure that your property looks and feels like someone is at home can be all that is needed to keep your belongings safe.

Leaving lights on in main rooms and leaving a radio tuned into a talk station can both help to deter thieves. For more advice and information contact the non-emergency number 101.