POLICE today appealed for witnesses after silverware was stolen in a burglary at a house in Bicester Road, Newton Purcell, near Bicester yesterday.

The owner of the property was on holiday and it was being looked after by a friend. When she went to the house yesterday the alarm was sounding and the conservatory door open.

Once the owner returned home it was discovered a large amount of silverware was missing.

The stolen items are a silver and glass claret jug, two silver wine coasters, two silver dishes, a silver tray, a silver plate, a silver condiment set, five silver serviette rings and a box containing 30 pieces of cutlery. Keys for internal and external doors and windows were also stolen.

Det Con Paddy O'Grady, investigating the incident, said: "A large amount of silverware was stolen which I am sure the thieves will try to sell on.

"I am keen to speak to anyone who has been offered silver items for sale or who saw any suspicious activity in the village."

Det Con O'Grady can be contacted via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

If you do not want to speak to police or leave your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.