instruments worth more than £13,000 have been stolen after a music shop was raided twice in three days.

During the first burglary, two saxophones and two guitars were taken from Allegro Music, London Road, Westcliff, after crooks got in at the back of the shop.

Two days later a further seven saxophones and two guitars were stolen.

Store manager Emma Solomons, 24, said: “One of the saxophones stolen during the break-ins was custom made with a gold body and silver top.

“We also had pink, black and silver saxophones taken, so if anyone comes across any unusual instruments like this, we would like to hear from them.

“They got in at the back of the store, but we have secured that area now so it won’t happen again.

“We are a large store, but that kind of loss would have an impact on any business.”

One of the stolen saxophones, made by Trevor James, was an unusual model in a frosted silver colour.

The burglars also stole the shop’s till which contained a small amount of cash.

PC Robert Kirk said: “Some of these items were highly distinctive, so if you have come across brand new instruments for sale in unusual circumstances, please let me know.

“The burglars are believed to have escaped on foot via Burdett Avenue into an alley through the churchyard into St John’s Road.

“With all of these items it would have been a very unusual sight.”

Anyone with information should contact PC Kirk at Southend police station on 0300 3334444 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.