Priceless gems were stolen in a burglary.

A home in Nye Lane, Ditchling, was targeted between 10.40am and 1.35pm on Monday, Sussex Police said.

A force spokesman said: “A rear window at the home was forced open while the residents were out.

“The victims returned to find their home had been searched by the burglars and several items of jewellery, some of them of great sentimental value, had been stolen.”

PC Chris Wright, of Lewes neighbourhood policing team, urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious behaviour in the area.

He added: "The impact on the victims cannot be underestimated. A burglary will always cause considerable distress to the victim, but when items of sentimental value are stolen it is particularly harrowing."