A “despicable” thief has stolen war medals and other treasured possessions from an 80-year-old Army veteran who is suffering with dementia.

Ron Stevens’ home in Rough Common was ransacked while he was in hospital.

The burglar also took jewellery of great sentimental and financial value.

The haul included Rolex, Omega and Seiko watches, a gold charm bracelet with 20 charms, a solid gold Dunhill lighter, a gold ring with the initials RS and sapphire and diamond earrings.

Many of the objects were gifts between himself and his late wife Lilian, who died two years ago after 59 years of marriage.

Mr Stevens was a warrant officer in the Queen’s Own Buffs who served in Aden, Kenya and Northern Ireland and continued to work for the Army as a civilian until his retirement.

He has three daughters and a son, who say they are devastated by the theft.

Daughter Carol Vickers, who also lives in Rough Common, said: “Dad is still in hospital and because of his illness will fortunately never know what has happened.

“It was a despicable thing to do because all the items are irreplaceable.

“Any intruder would have known it was an elderly person’s house, particularly because of the stair lift. It is only a blessing that Dad was not there at the time.

“We have not fully estimated the value but it runs into many thousands of pounds.

“But for us, it is the loss of treasured family heirlooms which would have passed down the family, like dad’s medals and watches, which is most painful.

“Basically, they took everything of value.

“The medals are for his service in Aden, Kenya and Northern Ireland and also a United Nations medals.”

She added: “We desperately want to get them back and I am hoping that someone out there knows where they and the jewellery are and perhaps is being offered them.

“We would urge them to contact the police if they can help get Dad’s property back.”