More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Home Sittingbourne News Article
A man has been arrested in connection with a burglary at a war veteran's home during which a number of medals were taken.
The suspect, 40, is in police custody on suspicion of the break-in at the home of Leslie Stelfox in Milton Regis, near Sittingbourne.
The 106-year-old had walked back indoors after watering his plants in the garden when he discovered the theft on Saturday.
War veteran's medals stolen again
Military honours belonging to the centenarian and his father were taken, as well as Mr Stelfox’s wallet, with about £45 inside.
This is the second time he has been burgled in just five years.
In 2014, thieves took the same medals and a number of other belongings – but police were able to reunite Mr Stelfox with his honours two months later.
The widower, who served with the Cheshire Regiment, said: “This is another kick in the teeth.
“The medals are no good to anybody else, but they proved I’d done my bit for the country.”
This morning, police said an arrest had been made.
A spokesman said: "Kent Police arrested a 40-year-old man on Wednesday, August 7 in connection with the theft of a number of war medals from a property in Sittingbourne on August 3.
"He remains in custody and inquiries are ongoing."
The medals have still not been recovered.
Those belonging to Mr Stelfox were: General Service for Palestine 1938; the 1945 Star; General Service 1936-1938; Italian Star 1939-1945; North Africa Star 1939-1945 and General Service 1939-1945.
Some of the medals have his war service number on the back – 4124264.
Those belonging to his late father, Arthur, were: three 1914 campaign medals, one for long service and a special one relating to HMS Swift, which would have been awarded for either saving the ship or someone’s life.
Anyone with information that could help to locate the medals should call police on 01795 419119, quoting 46/150616/19 or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form here.
