THE landlady of a pub near York says she has been left “absolutely devastated” after thieves stole more than £16,000 of cash and jewellery, including a unique bracelet.

Carol Temple, who runs the Rose and Crown at Sutton-on-the-Forest, returned from a night out with her partner, Bruce, to discover intruders had broken into the upper floors while Carol’s 12-year-old son was asleep.

The burglars stole £5,500, leaving more cash scattered across the floor, as well as a gold Gucci charm bracelet worth about £6,000, which Carol said was “priceless” to her.

The theft happened between 7.30pm and 11.30pm last Thursday.

It was discovered when Bruce went upstairs to get changed while Carol, who took the reins at the Rose and Crown last month, was having a drink with friends and regulars. The stolen bracelet has about ten identifiable charms, including one of a red and green handbag and another of an onyx Gucci sign.

Carol, who used to run the Ship Inn at Acaster Malbis and The Woodman at Bishopthorpe, said: “I had bought individual charms from places around the world, including Paris, New York and Antigua.

“It was priceless to me in terms of sentimental value.

“There will be nobody else in the world with a bracelet like that.” The thieves also stole a platinum Cartier bracelet and clasp worth about £5,000 and some costume jewellery.

Carol said the dried grass and mud she found on the floor of the pub’s living quarters made her believe the thieves had approached from playing fields behind the building.

“I have just had enough – it just makes me want to go back home,” said Carol, who sold on the other pubs she was in charge of when she bought the Rose and Crown.

Police have carried out door-to-door inquiries in the Sutton-on-the-Forest area as they look to track down the thieves. Investigating officer PC Lee Anderson said people should be vigilant when locking their homes and businesses and also watch out for people acting suspiciously.

Anybody with information about the crime or who believes they have been offered any of the stolen items for sale is asked to phone PC Anderson on 0845 6060 247 quoting reference 12110165570, or to email Lee.Anderson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk