Father's ashes stolen in burglary

A woman has been left "devastated" by the theft of her father's ashes from her Dorset home.

The 27-year-old, from Winton, found the ashes missing, along with a gold diamante ring, on Wednesday.

The ashes were stored in a silver bell container which has a small gold bear on the lid.

Insp Mike Claxton, who described the theft as "despicable", said: "This woman has had an item that was of great sentimental value stolen from her."

He added: "I am appealing to members of our community to provide police with any information that may help us to recover this item."

The burglary is the eighth in the north Bournemouth area since 8 November and police have urged residents to be vigilant and secure their homes.

Burglars have made off with jewellery, satellite navigation systems and stereo equipment in the other raids.