POLICE are hoping to prick the consciences of heartless thieves who ransacked an 82-year-old's house while he lay in his hospital bed.

Around £5,000 worth of goods were stolen in the New Year's Day raid from the home in Broad Town, near Wootton Bassett.

The items, which are believed to be family heirlooms, included a grandfather clock worth around £3,000 and a pocket watch worth £2,000.

The frail pensioner, who is expected to leave Great Western Hospital later this week, has yet to be told of the burglary.

His family believe news of the break-in could make his health deteriorate yet further.

It is thought the crooks got in by forcing open a window. A large van would have been needed to transport the heavier item.

Sgt Andrew Fortune, of Wootton Bassett police, branded it a horrible crime.

And he is appealing directly to the crooks to return the items to avoid further trauma.

"This was a particularly nasty burglary on a pensioner who lived alone," said Sgt Fortune.

"This type of crime when the victim is vulnerable is almost the lowest type of crime.

"It causes a huge amount of distress to victims, which is why his family have taken the decision not to tell him."

Police say the raid could have happened anytime that day but they suspect the thieves struck at night.

Sgt Fortune said: "The weather was bad that night with high winds. This would have disguised, to some extent, the sound of them breaking in.

"We have visited neighbours at the Broad Hinton end of the village and they say they heard nothing."

Anyone with information is asked to call Swindon police on 01793 528111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.