A FATHER has spoken of feeling violated after crooks smashed their way into a family home stealing thousands of pounds of sentimental jewellery.

Richard Kelley, 49, of Eastern Road, Rayleigh, was alerted to the incident after his alarm system sent notifications to his phone.

He said he unsure how much all the stolen jewellery would cost all together, but estimated less than £10,000.

Mr Kelley took to Facebook to tell people about the incident calling for anyone with any information to help.

He said: “The thieves took a selection of my wife’s jewellery, including her engagement ring, wedding ring, and her late mother’s Edwardian pendant, as well as my son’s watch.

“Whilst we feel violated, the items also have huge sentimental value, but all the items are irreplaceable.

“This is a complete long shot, but I thought it might help to share a photo of my wife’s pendant - in the vague hope that someone may see it in a jewellers, or maybe on eBay.

“If you do, please contact me or Southend CID directly.

“A generous reward given on recovery or evidence of leading to conviction.

“They left an iPhone and an iWatch that were in the bedroom.

“I think this was targeted as it’s a jewellery theft.

“My wife is absolutely devastated, it’s so terrible - you work really hard to have nice things and it feels like you can’t have them.”

His wife wants to move house following the incident.

It happened at about 5pm on Saturday, January 19.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating following reports of a burglary at an address in Eastern Road, Rayleigh.

“Jewellery, including a gold locket with great sentimental value, was taken just before 6pm.

“Anyone with information about the burglary, or suspicious activity in the area of Eastern Road or Great Wheatley Road at this time, is asked to call us on 101.

“The crime reference number to quote is 42/10280/19.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”