POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a burglary which saw a prized coin collection and limited edition jewellery stolen.

The burglary happened at Brooklands Park, Laindon between 8.30am and 12.30pm on Thursday June 30.

They forced their way into the home by smashing a rear window and then helped themselves to the collection of Royal Mint collectable coins.

Amongst the coins stolen were: a gold and silver coin issued for the christening of HRH Prince George; a set and various individual coins to mark the jubilees of HRH Queen Elizabeth II; several coins to mark the birth of HRH Prince George; and a coin to mark the 350th anniversary of the crown jewels.

The burglars also stole a Raymond Neil watch with a leather strap and a gold face, an Ingersoll Diamond limited edition men’s watch, an Ingersoll Diamond ladies watch, an Amadeus men’s watch and three men’s rings.

Dc Danielle Hutton, the Investigating officer of Basildon CID said: "The victim of this burglary had been collecting these coins for a numbers of years as a future investment for this family.

"He is therefore understandably devastated that they have been stolen.

"I would ask anyone who may have witnessed the burglary or suspicious activity in the Brooklands area at the time of the offence to contact us.

"These coins are very distinctive and if anyone comes across them I would urge them to contact us.”

Witnesses to the burglary or anyone with information can contact detectives at Basildon CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.