A young woman may be a key witness to a burglary at a jewellery shop.

Detectives hunting the raiders who broke into Marston Barrett in High Street, Lewes, at 12.30am on Tuesday want to speak the woman who was seen walking near to the scene.

She is not being treated as a suspect, but may have valuable information.

Detective Inspector Mark O'Brien, who is leading the enquiry, said: “We would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have seen a blue Vauxhall Astra or a silver Volkswagen Golf in or around the High Street in the time leading up to the raid.

"The Astra was seen heading up the High Street towards the prison and the VW Golf was stopped on the A217 in Banstead around an hour later.

“Police have recovered a substantial amount of property from the burglary and are working closely with other forces in the South East to progress the investigation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the public who have come forward to date and assisted this investigation.”

Jacob Francis, 27, of Homefield Road, south-west London, has been charged with burglary other than dwelling.

He was remanded in custody and was due to appear before Brighton magistrates today.

Anyone with any information should Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.