WAR medals awarded to a veteran of both world wars have been stolen during a house burglary.

The five decorations were handed down to the veteran’s grandson as a lasting memento, but overnight between Sunday and Monday thieves broke into the grandson’s house, off Haxby Road, and stole the medals, along with other items.

Three of the medals were from the First World War. They were the 1914/15 Star, a bronze star-shaped medal bearing two crossed swords, awarded to individuals who served in France and Flanders between November 1914 and December 1915; a British War Medal, a silver, circular medal, awarded to military personnel serving overseas between August 1914 and November 1918; and a Victory Medal, a gold circular medal, awarded to all eligible personnel who served in the theatre of war between 1914 and 1919.

Also taken was the King Haakon VII’s Freedom Cross, issued after Norway’s liberation in 1945. The medal was awarded to Norwegian and Allied military personnel for outstanding services during the Second World War. The Freedom Cross is made from blue and white enamel with a blue and white striped ribbon.

A miniature version of the medal was also taken from the victim’s home.

PC Amy Littlejohns, of York Police, said: “We would appreciate the public’s help in trying to find these medals.

“They are obviously of great sentimental value to the victim, who is understandably very upset by this incident and would like the medals returned.

“If anyone is offered any medals matching the description of the ones stolen, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the police or Crimestoppers.”

Other items taken from the property included a silver Dell flat-screen TV; a bronze Rico R10 digital camera; a metallic grey, men’s Raleigh town bike and about eight pairs of cufflinks.

Anyone with any information is asked to phone PC Littlejohns on 0845 6060 247.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be phoned anonymously on 0800 555 111.