A heartbroken widow is appealing to thieves to search their consciences after stealing her cherished wedding ring and an irreplaceable family heirloom.

The 67-year-old who lives in Portchester Road, Bournemouth, said: "My engagement ring was stolen 30 years ago so my wedding ring was even more special, particularly following my husband's death.

"The burglars took a black leather box which contained most of my jewellery including a pair of gold ruby earrings which had been left to me by my aunt.

"All my daughter's jewellery was taken as well. What upsets me most is that the thieves even raided my granddaughter's little trinket box. They have no idea of the heartache they have caused.

"I know there are desperate people out there who need money for drugs. But if there wasn't a market for items like these they

wouldn't be stolen."

The distraught grandmother, who does not wish to be identified, had gone out to walk the family dog on Tuesday, October 11, when the raiders struck between 10.45am and 12.10pm.

"When I came back there was no sign of a break-in so they may already have been in the house before I left," she said. "Now I don't trust anyone, which is very sad."

Thousands of pounds worth of items were stolen from the large detached property near Charminster Road including china,

digital cameras and lap-top computers. Police believe the burglars gained entry through an attached garage and used a vehicle to transport their valuable haul and make their getaway.

Since the break-in the family has installed a security system.

"We've been told by the police that security makes all the difference and you are much less likely to be burgled if you have an alarm system," said the pensioner.

"It's taken us a week clearing up all the mess."

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset police on 01202 222222 or use the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.