THE POLICE are appealing for the public’s help to trace war medals stolen from a Topsham property.

The ten war medals, which belong to an 89-year-old World War II veteran, were taken from a house in Elm Grove Road, overnight on Monday, June 28.

The victim is a grandfather who served his country in the Royal Engineers in North Africa and Italy.

Detective constable Tony Kan, who is investigating the theft, said: “This is a despicable crime against an elderly man and these medals have huge sentimental value for him.

“Three of the medals were his fathers who served in World War I and another three belonged to his grandfather who fought in the Zulu Wars.

“I am making this appeal to anyone who has information regarding their whereabouts, specifically to dealers in medals and acquaintances of the offender.”