Police have published an efit of man they want to speak to in connection with a burglary in which thousands of pounds worth of jewellery was stolen.

A house in Underhill Lane, Westmeston, near Hassocks, was broken into while the owners were out.

The bedrooms were searched and gold and diamond rings and necklaces were among the items taken.

Silver and pearl necklaces and pearl earrings were also stolen.

The incident happened between 10.30am and 12.30pm on June 20.

Officers are considering the possibility the same person could have been disturbed possibly trying to burgle a home in Belmont Lane, Hassocks, on the same day.

In that incident a woman walking back to her house was confronted by a man who emerged from behind her home.

The man, who was wearing a pale grey-t-shirt tucked into his trousers and gardening gloves and was carrying a spade, immediately left the area.

He was white, in his 40s and stocky.

He was at most 6ft, was clean shaven with a shaven head and a round face.

Detective Constable Richard Davidson said: "We do not know why the man was behind the house in Hassocks but he was certainly behaving suspiciously and matches the description of a man seen near the home in Westmeston at the time of that burglary.

"We need to speak to anyone who recognises the description of the man or who may have seen him in the area over the last few weeks. If you know anything at all please contact us."

Anyone with information about either burglary should call 101 quoting serial 806 of 20/6 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.