POLICE are hunting burglars who broke into a Southampton home overnight.

The intruders forced their way into a property in the Shirley area of the city when the occupants were at home.

Now officers are urging anyone who witnessed the break-in to contact them.

The intruders gained access through a rear door at a house in Gurney Road and stole a handbag containing cigarettes.

A 60-year-old woman living there raised the alarm after discovering the handbag was missing.

Police want to hear from people who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the incident between 9pm on Wednesday last week and shortly after midnight the following day.

Anyone who witnessed the break-in should contact police on 101, quoting 44160386446.

Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.