POLICE are hunting thieves who stole eight war medals belonging to a vicar’s heroic grandfathers.

Thieves broke into the property in Castledon Road, Downham, near Wickford, on April 26, sometime between 4.25pm and 6.40pm.

Cash, jewellery and the war medals were stolen.

The medals are distinctive and include three World War One service medals, known as Pip, Squeak and Wilfred medals engraved with GNR E Robertson, belonging to the victim's grandfather.

A World War One victory medal engraved with Second Lieutenant A A Gilchrist belonging to the victim's other grandfather.

A World War One British war medal engraved with SPR James Duncan Gilchrist and a set of three World War Two service medals belonging to the victim's Great Uncle.

Investigating officer Dc Dan Smith said: "These medals are worthless to most people, but to the victim, a local vicar, they are priceless.

“They are the last remaining memory of the harsh battles fought by his ancestors and the honour they brought to their family and the country.

“I would ask whoever has them to hand them in at a police station so that we can return these cherished heirlooms to their rightful owner and allow them to be passed down to future generations to allow the memory of these great war heroes to live on."

Anyone with any information about the burglary is asked to contact DC Smith at Chelmsford CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.