A family is appealing for burglars to return war medals including an MBE belonging to a British war veteran's grandson.
The medals were awarded to Harry George Smith in the Boer War and First and Second World Wars.
Burglars stole the priceless items from his grandson Jonathan’s home in Old Heath Road, Colchester, between April 12-19 while he was on holiday.
They include an MBE medal presented to Mr Smith by King George VI for the soldier’s work in the Home Guard during WWII in 1946.
Burglars have also made off with a Queen’s South Africa Medal, awarded to soldiers who fought against Boer separatists and WWI campaign medals and a medal belonging to Mr Smith’s other grandfather Horace Boat.
Mr Smith, 60, said: "I got back yesterday to find there had been a break-in. They were on a great big long bar, about six or seven medals in total.
"With all the anniversaries of the First World War coming up they are very important. One of my cousin's grandchildren was going to do some research.”
Mr Smith said his grandfather served for 28 years in the regular army. His brother was killed in the First World War.
A black Kawasaki motor bike, with the registration beginning AY06, was also taken.
Anyone with information is asked to call officer Dc Duncan Collyer at Colchester CID on 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Additional reporting Press Association
