A family have been left devastated after sentimental items containing messages of a loved one who died five years were stolen.

Offender(s) burgled a home in Queens Drive, Waltham Cross, between 3.30am and 4.30am on Wednesday, January 29.

Numerous items stolen included a HP Laptop, an Apple Mac computer, a PlayStation 4 and an iPhone 7.

These items contained photos, videos and messages from the victim’s partner.

The offender(s) also stole car keys before driving off in the vehicle - a black Mercedes E350, which is believed to have travelled into Ilford.

Detective Constable Claire Sprent, who is investigating, said: “The victim and the couple’s children are absolutely devastated and feel as if they have lost him all over again.

“I am desperately appealing for anyone who thinks they might have seen the stolen items or been offered them for sale.

“Similarly, I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the burglary or saw suspicious activity in the area at the time of the offence to get in touch.

“Any information you have, no matter how small it might seem, could help us to trace the offender(s) and find the stolen items.

“If you can help, please contact me on the non-emergency number 101 or email me quoting crime reference 41/8648/20.”

Alternatively, you contact 100 per cent anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form