A THURROCK couple, whose home was burgled when they were out for a pre-Christmas celebratory meal, are sharing their story to warn others this festive season.

Sharon and Danny Brown from Stanford-le-Hope returned home last Monday evening (9 December) to find their treasured belongings strewn across the floor.

Sharon said: "We called the police, and they came to speak to us and check the whole house. 

"I couldn't believe my eyes. It didn't register at first what had happened, but then it dawned on me and I realised we'd been burgled.

"It was such a shock. We've lived here 30 years and always felt so safe.

"Whoever broke in has pulled out all our drawers and cupboards and gone through our personal space.

"They took some irreplaceable jewellery including my engagement and wedding ring. They also took a gold gate bracelet which my mum gave me for my 21st birthday, 50 years ago.

"I wanted to hand that down to my children and grandchildren, but they have taken that from me too."

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The grandparents, who are in their 70s, say they thought their home was really secure, but have now taken extra crime prevention advice to reduce the risk.

Danny added: "The detectives and the crime scene investigators have been round to talk to us, take all the details and gather evidence.

"I know they are going to do all they can to catch those responsible, but we don't want this to happen to anyone else.

"It's awful at any time, but worse at Christmas. I hope people can see what has happened to us and do everything they can to secure their own homes.

"Follow Essex Police advice and make your home less likely to be a target. That's what we're going to do."

Crime scene investigator Jess Wiseman visited the couple on Tuesday morning and checked for evidence as part of the investigation into the burglary.

"We come to a scene and pay meticulous attention to even the minutest details as these often provide the critical evidence needed to apprehend perpetrators and ensure justice is served," explained Jess.

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"A burglar might think they have not left a trace of themselves or any evidence behind, but our training and equipment enables us to look in places others might not have noticed.

"I'm looking for the key which helps the investigators unlock the case and find those responsible.

"My warning to burglars is very clear, we are onto you, and we will be relentless in our pursuit of finding those who break into people's homes.

Home burglary rates are going down in the county and we're solving more than almost any other force in the county. In the last 12 months we've secured 130 burglary charges. 

Superintendent Tim Tubbs, who is Essex Police's strategic lead for burglary, said officers and staff across the force are committed to arresting those responsible for committing burglary and also ensuring people have the information they need to protect their home.

"One burglary is one too many. It makes me angry when I hear that Sharon and Danny's home has been broken into while they were out for the day.

"Our team will do all we can to secure the evidence and find those who committed this callous offence.

"With darker nights and people buying more goods in the run up to Christmas, I would really urge people to take those extra precautions and make sure their home is not an easy target."

For information on protecting your home visit: Keep burglars out of your property | Essex Police