A REDDITCH silversmith is desperate for news about a haul of silver tableware and jewellery which went missing during a burglary at his workshop last week.

Thousands of pounds of the unusual glass and silver items and jewellery were stolen when thieves broke into the Winyates Craft Centre between 5pm last Wednesday and 8am the following day.

The silversmith, who does not want to be named, had been working on some of the stolen pieces for the past two years, for a forthcoming international exhibition.

In all, between 30 and 40 pieces were taken, including glass and silver decanters, two or three pieces of gold jewellery and silver necklaces.

Other items taken in the raid included bangles, earrings, rings and cufflinks.

The pieces are all identified by the hallmark MJP.

The silversmith said: "I am desperate to get any of the pieces back.

"They were made for a special exhibition and have taken a long time to put together, so their return is very important and would mean a lot to me.

"The pieces are identified by a hallmark which starts with the initial MJP, which may help people trace them.

"It's the first time in 23 years this has happened and obviously we have now upped security and vigilance.

"Whoever broke in must have made a lot of noise."

He added: "I'm not going to let this set me back."

Anyone with details about the burglary or whereabouts of the stolen items can call Pc Andy Jones, of Redditch police, on 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.