WAR medals including one presented by the king have been stolen from a house in Colchester.

Burglars broke into a house in Old Heath Road between April 12 and April 19.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "The stolen items include First World War medals in the name of Harry George Smith of the Essex Regiment including the South African Campaign Medal amongst others.

"The medals are set on an extended bar and there are more than six of them.

"There is a MBE medal in a black presentation box in the same name presented in 1946 by King George VI for Harry’s work in the Home Guard during the Second World War."

First World War campaign medals issued to Horace Boat were also taken along with a black Kawasaki motorbike with a registration beginning AY06.

Anyone who saw suspicious activity in the area, knows who is responsible or is offered the medals or bike to buy is urged to contact investigating officer Det Con Duncan Collyer at Colchester CID on 101, or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.