A set of cufflinks formerly owned by piano legends Russ Conway and Liberace has been stolen.

The prized items, in the shape of miniature pianos, were among a number of items taken from a home near Bexhill.

The owner, who does not want to be identified, was left the items by close friend Russ, who died of cancer in 2000.

He was planning to sell the gold and ivory cufflinks and they were put up for auction earlier this year on the internet site eBay.

The owner advertised the cufflinks and a piano which also belonged to Russ on the web site while enjoying a week's holiday.

Both the cufflinks and piano drew a lot of interest but no formal offers.

However, on his return home, the man was shocked to find his house had been burgled and the cufflinks, worth several thousand pounds, taken.

The man said: "They came in through the window and used my own tools from the garage to break into the safe. They have raped my life."

A police spokeswoman said the burglary took place at Maple Walk, Little Common between January 28 and February 6.

She said: "Among items stolen was a pair of boxed original cufflinks once made for Liberace.

"They are of miniature gold pianos with ivory keys. These are one of only a few pairs made. Cash and other items of jewellery were stolen."

Anyone who can help should contact PC Ian Riches at Bexhill police station on 0845 6070999.