2:27pm Tuesday 8th July 2008
ANTIQUES and jewellery were stolen from a house in Kilmeston Village on Monday (July 7).
Police in Winchester are appealing for witnesses following the break-in at property on Alresford Road.
Intruders gained entry to the large country house, between 7.35am and 8am, by forcing a downstairs window and made a thorough search of the ground floor.
The suspects were forced to flee via the way they entered when the owner returned.
Several items of jewellery and antiques, including an engagement ring, a set of four naval paintings, a carriage clock and a silver dish, were taken.
Police said it is likely the thieves then left the area in a vehicle.
At least two suspects were involved and one is described as: early to mid twenties, of athletic build, around 6ft tall wearing a grey, baggy top possibly with dark coloured hair.
Police investigator Peter Davies said: "This is a burglary on a large country house where several items of high sentimental and monetary value have been taken.
"There is a good chance the suspects were in the area of the house some time prior to the incident.
"We would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the burglary to contact us if they saw anyone acting suspiciously or saw any vehicles acting in a suspicious manner.
"We would advise owners of large country residences to always ensure their properties are secure and to review their security as a matter of course."
Anyone with information should contact Winchester police station on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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