A student is appealing for her books and degree notes to be returned after they were stolen two weeks before her exams.

Helen Hipperson, 24, says she needs the specialist art and architecture books and her personal notes to complete her degree.

They were in a box on the pavement outside her house in Hillside, Newhaven, when they were taken.

Helen, who is studying for a degree in theatre and visual arts at Brighton University, had performed an assessed show outside the Jubilee Library in Brighton as part of her course.

She returned home with her family and was unpacking props when the box was stolen.

Helen's father John was unloading items when a passer-by asked him if they could take the books. He said no and went inside.

When he came out to get them they were gone.

Helen said she would give a cash reward for the return of the books and her notes.

She is preparing to hand in her final pieces of coursework on May 15.

She said: "It is the culmination of four years of study. I am appealing for them to return it all.

"The person who took them will know where they got them from."

Anyone with information should call Helen on 01273 611755, text 07854 139420 or call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.