AN Exmouth mum-of-three is appealing to the burglar who stole her digital camera chip to hand it back.

AN Exmouth mum-of-three is appealing to the burglar who stole her digital camera chip to hand it back.

Single mum Beth Bamsey, of Salterton Road, had her home broken into last week, while she and her young family was out.

The full-time care worker said the chip would be worthless to the burglar - but had sentimental value to her because the photographs were priceless and irreplaceable.

She said as long as the chip was returned, there would be 'no questions asked' about its disappearance or the burglary.

Ms Bamsey, 29, said she forgave the culprit who broke into her home and stole her children's Nintendo PS3 and games, and also took the pink Samsung DS camera and chip containing the precious snaps.

"There are pictures of my children on and also our holiday. They can't be replaced," she said. "I expect someone's chucked the chip in the hedge, or it's at the recycling centre.

"I don't care why they did it. They can remain anonymous and there will be no questions asked,

"I don't blame them for what they have done. I blame the parents - how do their children know how to steal? If my children want something, they ask. They don't steal.

"I don't understand why they did it, but I want my property back.

"I am angry and annoyed they broke into my home.

"Since the burglary, my six-year-old daughter has been unable to sleep."

The burglary took place last week in the middle of the day, while the family was out.

It is thought the burglar forced the lock to gain entry to the family home.

When Ms Bamsey and her children returned, they noticed a pot containing small change was upturned on the kitchen counter.

Going upstairs, Ms Bamsey's children, aged six, five and two, saw their computer consol was missing - and also the camera.

The television and electrical equipment downstairs was untouched.

Ms Bamsey said: "I have had to put six extra locks on my door. I shouldn't have to live like this. I should be able to leave my home and go to work without it being burgled."

* To return or report the whereabouts of the missing camera chip, contact the Journal on (01392) 888507, or post it direct to the office at Fair Oak Close, Clyst Honiton, Exeter, EX5 2UL.