AN elderly woman has had cash and jewellery stolen from her home in a burglary in Pershore.

The 93-year-old was watching television at her home in Mill Lane at about 9.20pm yesterday when the break-in happened.

Items stolen include a gold watch, a black purse and an engagement ring along with at least £80 in cash.

The woman was alerted to the burglary after finding her bedside cabinet had been moved and that a tin on it that usually contained money was empty.

A police spokesman said: “On seeing the tin was empty the lady realised someone must have been into her home so she immediately called her neighbour round.

“On checking the rest of the house the lady could see that other rooms had also been entered and when her neighbour arrived she quickly called the police to report the burglary.

“It appears that while the victim was watching her TV an individual or individuals came into her house through the insecure rear door, quietly searched her home and then made off with various items without her knowing.

“Officers investigating this incident are keen to speak to anyone who believes they may have information about it, especially anyone who may have seen any suspicious or unfamiliar individuals or vehicles in the Mill Lane area last night.

“Anyone who believes they may have information about this incident is asked to call West Mercia Police on 101 or 0300 333 3000, quoting incident number 610S 090114.”