POLICE are hunting burglars who ransacked a retired couple's home in Northbrooks, Harlow, while they were out celebrating the New Year with family.

Retired firefighter Donald Wright and his disabled wife Janet returned to their home of 20 years on Monday to find £2,000 worth of property had been stolen, including jewellery and electrical items.

Officers said Mr Wright and his wife were "completely devastated" by the burglary. The jewellery was of particular sentimental value to Mrs Wright as it had been passed down from her mother.

Police are appealing for witnesses who saw anything suspicious in the area between noon on Sunday, December 31, and 1.20pm on New Year's Day to ring Harlow CID on 01279 625412.