A pocket watch of ‘significant sentimental value’ was taken during a burglary at a property in Alwins Field, Leighton Buzzard on March 6.
The silver watch, which was fitted with a snaffle link chain, together with keys to a vehicle, cash, a Packard bell laptop, an iPad cover and a decorative two-inch mini polade sword were taken after a burglar forced their way in to the property by smashing the glass in the rear door using the victim’s garden spade.
Det Con Simon Day, is circulating a picture of the watch in a bid to trace anyone who may have been offered a similar watch for sale.
He said: “This watch is of significant sentimental value to the owner as it was a retirement gift originally belonging to the victim’s grandfather and can never be replaced. I would urge anyone who may have been offered this type of watch for sale to contact the police as soon as possible.”
Residents are advised to take time out to make sure their homes are protected and to be extra vigilant, reporting any suspicious people they see in their area to the police, immediately.
The reduction of burglary is still a priority for Bedfordshire Police and residents can help keep their homes and property safe by following this simple advice:
If you are going out during the evening or at night leave a light on and a radio tuned in to a talk radio station
If you are going out during the day and planning to come home after it is dark also leave a light on and a radio tuned into a talk radio station
Security mark your property with products like Smartwater
Find out about Neighbourhood Watch and what it can do for you
NEVER leave money in your home – always put in the bank
Also consider keeping your most precious jewellery in the bank
Double lock UPVC doors by lifting the handle before you turn the key
Make sure alarms are fitted, serviced and security lighting is in good working order
Bolt side entrances and check boundary fences are secure and make sure your gates are kept locked
If you must leave a downstairs fanlight open, fit window limiters
If you are out in your garden make sure your doors and windows remain locked
And remember to always lock away any tools or ladders so burglars cannot make use of these to break in to your home.