DETECTIVES are hunting two thieves who burgled a family home and stole thousands of pounds of sentimental jewellery.

Officers have released CCTV of the thieves as they targeted the home in Water Street, Accrington.

The burglars forced their way into the property using tools to remove a rear door panel, police said.

Valuable jewellery, including a diamond cluster engagement ring, a gold ring and a ruby ring, was stolen.

Police said personal documents including a passport, wedding certificate and numerous credit and debit cards were also taken.

The burglars also helped themselves to other sentimental items including a solid gold boxing glove charm, a ladies antique gold Accurist watch, several mens’ dress watches as well as a Playstation 4, a number of PS4 games, a Bose speaker and Samsung tablets.

Detectives said the thieves tried to use the stolen bank cards at the ATM at the Spar petrol station in Burnley Road, Accrington shortly after at 11pm on September 30 without success.

A police spokesman said: “We are appealing for anyone with any information about the suspects to come forward.

“To speak to the police in confidence email PC 589 Sarah Fyans from Greenbank Police Station quoting log 1741 of September 30 2017 at address 589@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

Officers, who have just released details of the burglar, said the offence took place between 7pm and 10.45pm on September 30 and it has had 'a significant impact on the homeowners who are deeply saddened by the loss of such sentimental and personal belongings'.

Cllr Paddy Short, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said: “I have spoken to the police who are investigating the incident.

“I can’t remember the last time something like this happened in the area.

“I encourage residents to take precautions and make sure they have the right locks on their doors

“If residents hear any kind of noise outside they should ring the police.”

Cllr Joyce Plummer, who also represents the area, said: “It is a shock.

“It is an unusual amount of valuable jewellery that has been taken.

“It concerns me greatly that there are a number of incidents occurring in the Peel ward including in Water Street.

“Make sure your windows, doors and cars are secure.

“I hope that whoever burgled this resident’s house gets caught otherwise people will start to feel unsafe in the area.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101.