A HAMPSHIRE family has been left devastated after thieves stole a Chinese sword along with a haul of other unique items they have collected over the years.

Officers are hunting the burglars who broke into a flat in Lumsden Mansions, Shirley Road, Southampton, bagging a number of extremely distinctive looking ornaments and jewellery.

They included a jade Buddha, five ivory bracelets, a Chinese sword, two ivory statues, a set of silver 25-piece cutlery and a brass lion statue.

DC Kate Gillingham, who is investigating, said: “These items are unique and have been collected by the family over a number of years.

“We’d like to hear from you if you have been offered any of these items for sale, or have seen them for sale anywhere.”

Anyone with information about the burglary, which took place on March 12, should contact DC Gillingham at Shirley, on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.