Police are appealing for information following two separate burglaries in Uttlesfield.

A house in Rookery Close, Saffron Walden, was burgled between 10.45pm on Tuesday, October 29 and 6am on Wednesday, October 30, after the front door was forced.

A ruck sack and some car keys that had been near the front door were stolen.

The thief then stole the owner’s silver Volkswagen Passat. The rucksack was later found discarded nearby.

A house in Parsonage Downs, Dunmow, was also burgled between 10.30am and 3.45pm on Monday, September 4.

Entry was gained via a window and jewellery worth a four figure sum was stolen.

This included a particularly distinctive ring, described as being very much like the ring once owned by Princess Diana, a gold band with oval shape stone setting with a dark blue stone in the centre with smaller clear diamonds all around it.

Investigating officer, Pc Victoria Butler said: “This has been owned by victim for 20 to 30 years together with a gold link chain necklace with a cross pendant on, these are of particular sentimental value. “

Pc Butler said: “I would like to hear from anyone who noticed anything suspicious in either of the areas at these key times.

Residents are reminded to securely store personal effects such as handbags, mobile phones and keys away from doors and windows.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Pc Butler, or her colleagues at Braintree, on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.