Pearls and rubies worth £25,000 stolen from Littlecote

The 86-year-old victim, from Bournemouth, said she had left a number of items of jewellery in a purse that was concealed in her suitcase. It was only when she returned home after her stay that she discovered that the jewellery was missing.
Wiltshire Police are appealing for witnesses and information following the burglary at the hotel, which they believe is likely to have occurred on Tuesday, December 27, 2011, but was not reported to police until approximately six weeks later.
In total, the items are worth approximately £25,000 and have been described as follows:
- Pearl set: a necklace of two rows of pearls with a Mickey Moto clasp; diamond and pearl drop earrings with 18 carat gold studs; and an 18 carat gold pearl ring
- Ruby set: an 18 carat white gold necklace with a ruby pendant surrounded by diamonds; 18 carat gold ruby earrings surrounded by diamonds; and an 18 carat gold ruby ring surrounded by diamonds
- Coral set: matching 14 carat gold, brown coral necklace, earrings and ring set
PC Gemma Vinton, of Swindon CID, said: “These items are not only worth a great deal of money but have sentimental value for their owner.
“Burglary is an extremely distressing crime and I would like to use this opportunity to appeal for help from the public to identify the offender/s.
“In particular, I am keen to hear from anyone who was staying at the hotel or who was in the area at the time and may have seen or heard anything suspicious.
“I would also like to hear from members of the public or jewellers who have been offered the items described at a cheaper than normal price and/or without the accompanying documentation.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Gemma Vinton at Gablecross Police Station on 101. Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information may be left anonymously if preferred.