Police have renewed their appeal after burglars broke into an elderly woman’s house to steal jewellery.

Four offenders broke into the house in Hooten Lane, Ravenfield, while the 70 year old occupant was sleeping. She was then woken and forced to open her safe.

Detective Constable Paul Mclyntyre, Rotherham CID, said: “I’d really like to hear from anyone who was in the Hooton Lane area this evening between 6.30pm and 7.30pm and might have noticed any vehicles they don’t usually see in the area.”

A significant amount of jewellery was stolen from the safe as well as removed from the woman during the burglary during the raid on 6 February.

Police also reported that a week before the burglary, two men went to the woman’s house – claiming to be working with the council and enquiring about loft work.

Detective Constable Paul Mclyntyre added: “Have you experienced a similar visit? Have you seen any jewellery matching the pictures being sold in the local area?”

The two men were wearing ordinary clothing and drove away in a white, high-sided van. Neither of the men produced any identification.

Detective Constable Paul Mclyntyre added: “If you can help with any information, please don’t delay in contacting us on 101, through Crimestoppers or making a report through our online portal; quote incident number 832 of 6th February.”