A WOMAN was devastated to return from a holiday to find her late father’s war medals had been stolen.

Burglars used a paving slab to smash their way into the house Ridge Crescent, Whitefield some time between 6pm on Wednesday, August 14, and 8.30am on Thursday, August 15.

The woman returned from a holiday a week later and told police that medals belonging to her father were missing. He was a war veteran and died in 2006.

The medals included the Burma Star, the 1939-45 Star, the 1939-45 Defence Medal and the 1939-45 War Medal. Each was engraved with the name "R Brittain" on the back.

A tablet computer, laptop, cash and several items of jewellery were also taken during the break-in.

PC Rob Bartlett said: "This family has been left devastated by losing these medals. They were of extreme sentimental value to the family, who are very proud of what their relative did.

"The family would like these irreplaceable medals to be returned. If anyone recognises them from the pictures, I would urge them to get in touch with the police."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 8568145 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.