A precious locket containing a lock of hair from her dead son has been stolen from a Margate woman.

And detectives investigating the burglary in Byron Avenue have issued an appeal for witnesses.

Thieves gained entry to the property by smashing the back door window while the occupants were away, between 5pm on Sunday, February 12, and 5.45pm on Tuesday, February 14.

Money, jewellery and computer consoles were taken, along with the locket containing a strand of hair from the owner’s son who died 16 years ago.

Detective Constable Julie Bonello said: “Burglary is an intrusive crime and leaves victims feeling devastated but when such personal and sentimental items are stolen it is heart breaking.

“We would love to be able to reunite the owner with her precious locket.”

If anyone has any information, they should contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference ZY/6008/17.