Four burglaries in south Shropshire

Jewellery, silver and china were among a haul of more than £10,000 of high-quality items stolen during burglaries at four homes in south Shropshire, police revealed today.

Detectives say they believe the raids in Church Stretton and Ludlow are likely to be linked. The homeowners were out during all the incidents, which took place in Church Stretton between 3pm on July 15 and 6pm the following day at two houses in The Bridleways and another home in nearby The Woodlands.

The Ludlow burglary happened at a bungalow in Downton View on Sunday between 3pm and 6pm.

West Mercia Police has called on any witnesses, or anyone who is offered the goods, to come forward.

Constable Lisa Cox, the force's burglary officer for south Shropshire, said: "I am appealing for any information which might help the investigations.

"If anyone saw anything suspicious in these areas, do contact me at Ludlow police station on 0300 333 3000.

"Also, if anyone is offered property for sale in dubious circumstances, they should also contact the police."