Medals of war heroes stolen in spate of village burglaries

In one raid, medals were taken along with some jewellery from a house in Lime Kiln Lane, Kirk Deighton, on December 20. A Burma Star, a 1939-1945 Star and a First World War Victory Medal were stolen.

The burglaries, in villages between Harrogate and Wetherby, have also seen Rotary Club regalia and jewellery taken from a house in Little Ribston on December 10, while three military medals mounted on a red and blue ribbon – some engraved with the name W G Whitehead – were among medals stolen from a house in Spofforth on December 23. A Royal Artillery beret badge was also taken.

Detective Constable Sam Harding, appealed for anyone who has been offered medals for sale to check for the ‘W G Whitehead’ engraving.

Det Con Harding said: “I am making a direct appeal to those who are responsible. Some of the bravest and most honourable men and women fought and died so you could continue to live in a safe place.

“These medals were given to those men and women for their tremendous efforts. You have not earned these medals and they deserve to be in the possession of the family of those brave people.

“We urge you to please show some respect for the people that sacrificed themselves for you and contact the police so the medals can be reunited with their rightful owners.”

Residents in the area are asked to report any suspicious activity to Harrogate CID on North Yorkshire Police’s non-emergency number of 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.