Thieves steal Rotherham veteran's war medals

A 90-year-old war veteran has had his medals stolen in a burglary after a gang stole his safe.Among items taken from the pensioner's home in Greasbrough was his proud collection of medals, including the Burma Star for service in the Far East during the Sec
A 90-year-old war veteran has had his medals stolen in a burglary after a gang stole his safe.

Among items taken from the pensioner's home in Greasbrough was his proud collection of medals, including the Burma Star for service in the Far East during the Second World War.

Police said that the medals had been locked away in a safe along with cash, jewellery and two valuable Hunter watches.

The 90-year-old was out at the time of the break-in, between 3pm and 4.30pm last Wednesday.

When he returned home, he found that the front door had been forced, upstairs lights left on and every room ransacked.

Investigating officer, DC Lisa Yates, said: "It took three men to move and install the safe when it was empty, so more than one person must have taken part in this crime. A vehicle will have been used to transport the safe and its contents away from the property.

"There is no rear access to the property and so it appears that the suspects came and went via the front door. It is also likely a vehicle would have been parked outside the front of the address in order to move the stolen safe.

"The victim is a 90-year-old man who served his country and the treasured possessions are irreplaceable. I am appealing to anyone who knows anything about this incident to do the decent thing and contact the police."

Anyone who saw anything suspicious on Wednesday, December 9, near to Munsbrough Lane or Potter Hill, or has information about the burglary is urged to contact DC Yates on 01709 832263 or e-mail [email protected].

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.