Trowbridge man's heartache as late wife's jewellery stolen (From This Is Wiltshire)

A Trowbridge man is heartbroken that jewellery belonging to his late wife was taken during a burglary at his home.

Mike James, 65, who is Trowbridge Rugby Club president, was called back from a holiday in Malta last Friday after numerous items of wife June’s jewellery were stolen, including her wedding ring, engagement ring and a ruby anniversary ring.

Mrs James, 65, died on January 5 and her husband of 42 years as well as their sons, Stuart and Robert, are desperate to be reunited with the precious items.

“I thought I’d get away to Malta for a break, I arrived on the Thursday evening, and by Friday morning I had a phone call from my son explaining what had happened,” he said.

“I’ve lost June and now her jewellery has gone, so it feels like I have lost her twice.”

Mr James’ Trowbridge home was broken into through the rear with Mrs James’ jewellery, gold watch, money and other items being taken.

After the incident, Mr James cut short his week-long holiday, returning home on Sunday to see the damage for himself.

He said: “The monetary value of the items taken isn’t important, it’s the sentimental importance that they carry.

“I just hope someone might have an attack of conscience and return them, or at the very least I can alert shops that people might be trying to trade the jewellery in.”

The break-in is currently being investigated by police and they are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Police Inspector Lisette Harvey said: “It is always very upsetting in incidents like this because it’s a double hit for the family. They will be very upset that cherished items have been taken and it makes the situation even more sensitive for the police.”

Mrs James’ wedding ring is gold with crisscrosses, the engagement ring is gold with a diamond and the anniversary ring has a ruby stone.

Anyone with information, or who witnessed the break-in, should call Wiltshire Police on 101.