'Shameful' theft of war medals

The military decorations were among heirlooms taken from a house in Malton Road, York, between 1.30pm and 4pm on Thursday last week.

Stolen were four Great War medals awarded to the home owner's uncle: the Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry, the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal – all in their original envelopes.

Det Con Mike Avison, of York CID, said: "This is a shameful crime which has naturally left the victim feeling extremely upset and shaken.

"I urge anyone who knows anything about this despicable offence to contact me as soon as possible so that we can reunite the rightful owner with his treasured possessions and bring the offenders to justice."

One burglar distracted the victim while an accomplice forced open the front door to steal the medals, along with a silver teapot, a gold Omega wristwatch and a gold pocket watch engraved with the name "John Butler".

The man was white, 5ft 11in, medium build, and brown hair, and called himself James. Witnesses should contact police on 0845 6060 247, quoting 12100168677, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.