Two burglaries on Newcastle Road

Police have urged people to be on their guard after two burglaries in Newcastle Road on Monday morning.

The offender had been knocking on doors on Monday 3rd December to find out if properties were empty. Where someone has answered he has made the excuse of asking for directions.

The male is described as being of slim build, 5ft 10ins tall and in his twenties. He had short hair and was wearing a grey three-quarter-length coat. He forced entry to homes and stole a large amount of jewellery. The burglaries took place some time between 9am and 1pm.

Items taken from the first house include a gold bracelet made up of linked flowers, a gold signet ring with the letter ‘J’ engraved on it, a yellow gold eternity ring with three solitaire diamonds and a plain silver ring with an oval mother of pearl type stone.

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They also stole an antique yellow gold wind-up ladies dress watch with a hexagonal face in a red presentation box, a silver sixpence ladies ring and a ladies diamante brooch with the letter ‘G’ on it.

Offenders stole a silver Playboy necklace with a bunny logo and pink gem, a gold ring with three diamonds, a blue GT I drive mountain bike and a Webbley and Scott air rifle in a black case from the second house.

DC Jon Stephenson, investigating officer, said: “A number of residents reported that a man was acting suspiciously between 10am and 11am and we are keen to hear from anyone else who saw him. He was knocking on doors asking for directions in the street and is described as white, aged in his mid 20s, slim, around 5ft 10 tall, wearing a grey three-quarter length jacket.

“We have launched investigations into both incidents, which are believed to be linked, and would like to speak to anyone with information.”

Witnesses, or anyone who is offered items they believe may be stolen, is asked to contact DC Stephenson at Staffordshire Police on 101, quoting incident 289 of December 3, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.