POLICE are anxious to trace a shotgun stolen in a burglary at a house in West Grimstead.

The Geco 12-bore shotgun was taken during the break-in at the house in Butter Furlong Road on March 30.

Thieves are believed to have got into the garden shed and taken a spade and stepladder from inside.

The spade was used to smash a window of the house. About £2,000-worth of goods were stolen, including silver pocket watches, two water jug sets, a blue meat dish, mugs, plates, a pendulum wall clock and the shotgun. The items were wrapped in pillowcases.

Detective Constable Nigel Porter, of Amesbury CID, who is leading the inquiry, appealed to anyone who had been offered any of the items, particularly the gun, to contact him.

He also urged anyone who saw any unfamiliar vehicles in the village prior to the burglary to call.

"The road is regularly used by dog walkers and they may have seen a vehicle driving up and down the road or people acting suspiciously," said DC Porter.

"We believe the burglary took place between 12 noon and 3pm, but the offenders may have had a good look at the premises during the days before the break-in.

"We are particularly keen to recover the gun, as it could do considerable damage."

Anyone with information is asked to ring Amesbury CID on 01980 623822.