A previously crime-free York village has become a burglary blackspot in just one week - and forensic evidence shows the break-ins could be linked.

Householders were today warned to be on their guard after more than £20,000 of property was stolen in nine daytime burglaries in Copmanthorpe.

The rear windows and doors of homes were forced open and jewellery including wedding and engagement rings was stolen along with stereo equipment, cameras and mobile phones.

One woman, who did not wish to be named, lost not only her own solitaire engagement and eternity ring but also those of her great- great-grandmother and her husband's great aunt.

"My husband's great aunt got engaged just after the outbreak of the First World War, her fiance was killed and she never married," she said.

"I don't know if the ring was tremendously valuable - it is a square ruby in a platinum setting - but because of its sentimental value it's irreplaceable.

"We had about seven rings stolen, as well as watches and some money given to my son for his 21st birthday.

"If I could have any one thing back it would be my own engagement ring - my husband said he'd buy me another but I remember buying the first one with him in Sheffield and the party we had - you can't bring that back."

York police say the eyes and ears of local residents could prove their most effective means of trapping what they believe may be one prolific thief active in Copmanthorpe between at least January 3 and 9.

"Our work with scene of crime officers and the forensic division has shown a clear pattern emerging, which tends to indicate these burglaries were committed by the same people or person," said Detective Chief Inspector John Lacy.

"We'd also advise people to review their own security arrangements."

Copmanthorpe councillor Andrew Armstrong said the police had issued warnings about home security through the parish council in recent weeks and said he hoped people were taking it seriously.

"This spate of burglaries is deeply disturbing," he said.

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