Beaminster tunnel closed following a landslide
Rosemary Snell and Michael Rolfe were killed in a landslide at the Beaminster tunnel in Dorset Jen Burden

Thieves have raided the home of a woman who died after she was trapped in her car by a landslide in Dorset.

Rosemary Snell, 67, was killed along with her partner, 72-year-old Michael Rolfe, when their car was crushed under tonnes of mud and rubble near the Beaminster tunnel.

An inquest revealed that they pair died instantaneously. It is believed that they lay dead in their car for 10 days before they were discovered. Police used mobile phone and credit card records to track the pair after they were reported missing.

Just days after the discovery of the bodies, burglars broke into the home of Snell in the village of Misterton, near Crewkerne in Somerset, to steal her collection of silver antiques.

Officers believe the thieves may try to sell the antiques at car boot sales, and are asking shoppers and antique dealers to be vigilant.

Det Chief Insp Pete Warren, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "This is a despicable crime that has been committed by someone who may have deliberately targeted the property following the national media coverage.

"The offenders forced entry at the rear of the property and took specific items that are of antique value.

"We have increased patrols in the area but would also ask the community to report anyone acting suspiciously to us."