A thief has ransacked the home of a 94-year-old woman, stealing two 'hugely sentimental' First World War medals belonging to her late father.

Silverware, jewellery and cash were taken in the burglary, which took place just over a week ago, but it is the theft of the distinctive war medals which has left the family reeling, say police.

Both of the medals - the British War Medal 1914-18 and The Allied Victory Medal - are embossed around the edges with the name ‘A.Hogbin’ along with his rank and military service number. They were removed from a picture frame in the house where they were presented side by side with a photograph of her father.

The 94-year-old woman who lives at the property was out when the suspect broke in last Thursday, sometime between 7.30pm and 11.30pm. Pc Drew Turner, from the investigation team, said:

“To come home and find that such precious possessions have been stolen is distressing. We are determined to get these items back to the owner.

"The medals are of great sentimental value, she is desperate to have them returned and I’d urge anyone who has been offered a medal for sale to come forward and tell us."

If anyone has information on the theft or the medals they are asked to contact Pc Turner at drew.turner@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk or West Midlands Police on 101.