A FAMILY dog left home alone while its owners went to work failed to raise the alarm when burglars struck.

The family told police their Labrador dog normally barks when strangers approach the house, but is not the type of dog to have a go at people, and on this occasion it was unable to attract the neighbours' attention.

The thieves struck at the house in Westerham Walk, Calne, on Friday between 12.45pm and 3.15pm and police suspect they got in through the back door, which may have been left unlocked.

The raiders stole jewellery, including a number of sets of gold Rolex watches and bracelets, and a personal DVD player, with a combined value of between £1,200 and £1,500.

WPC Rachel Jennings, stationed at Calne police station, said: "The thieves appear to have made a quick search of the premises ignoring many items of value as they went.

"The jewellery has sentimental value and cannot be replaced."

There was no damage to the property and the dog appeared shaken, but otherwise unharmed.

Its owners told police the dog usually grabs a toy in its mouth to greet them when they return, but on the day of the burglary it did not.

Police are appealing for information about a man who may have been connected to the theft who was seen by neighbours near the house at 3pm.

The man, who was sitting on the ground and had taken one of his trainers off, said he had a thorn in his foot.

He was described as white, aged between 18 and 22, 5ft 10ins with dark unkempt hair and a large coldsore on his mouth. He was wearing a white T-shirt and navy blue tracksuit bottoms.