A BURGLAR has stolen precious jewellery belonging to the late wife of an elderly Runcorn widower.

Detectives today appealed for information following the break-in at a house in Cedar Avenue.

The 86-year-old man was watching television when he heard a noise from upstairs.

He went to investiate and disturbed the intruder who fled.

The victim then alerted police.

The incident happened at around 10.15pm on Saturday, August 25.

DC Ciara Murphy, who is investigating the incident, said: "Whilst the majority of the stolen jewellery was recovered in the garden of the property, six pairs of earrings are still missing.

“Two pairs are diamond earrings and four pairs are silver earrings with clear stones. They are all in boxes.

"These items are of great sentimental value to the victim as they belonged to his late wife and we are doing everything we can to trace them and return them to their rightful owner.

"We are following up a number of lines of enquiry in relation to the burglary including house-to-house enquiries and any relevant CCTV enquiries.

"We are appealing to anyone who has any information in relation to this incident or the whereabouts of the stolen items to come forward.

“We are also urging anyone who is offered jewellery similar to the items mentioned to get in touch."

Anyone with information can call Cheshire Police on 101.