A SNEAK thief who fled with distinctive jewellery in a lightning raid on a home in Nelson is being sought by the police.

Food processing engineer Richard Eastwood, 49, had only left his Eckroyd Close home for a short time before the burglar struck last Friday night.

But even though a neighbour called him to report suspicious activity at his property, between 8.45pm and 9pm, the intruder had fled with a substantial haul by the time he returned.

Several rings and at least four gentleman’s watches, along with cash, four mobile phones and laptop were taken in the raid. Eyewitnesses say that the suspected burglar fled from the back of the corner house in the direction of Hibson Road.

Mr Eastwood said: “It was the photos of my children, which were on the phones, which I won’t be able to replace.”

Much of the jewellery was packaged in purple presentation boxes and he believes that if the jewellery is offered for resale online, or via dealers, then this should sound alarm bells.

One ring was particularly distinctive – a three-ruby nine-carat piece with diamond clusters – among a collection Mr Eastwood had amassed over a number of years.

The engineer also thinks that the thief may have been lying in wait for him to leave before carrying out the burglary.

Police say the man they are seeking was around 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build and he was wearing dark clothing and a baseball cap.

PC James Walton said: “If anyone has any information about what happened or noticed anyone acting suspiciously around the address on Friday evening then I would ask them to come forward and get in touch.”

Mr Eastwood said that he was willing to offer a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the burglar.

Witnesses can call police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.