Mother launches desperate appeal after twin babies' ashes stolen from her home

A mother has been left heartbroken after a box containing the ashes of her twin babies was stolen from her house in South West London.

Police have launched an appeal for witnesses and information after the woman's home in Castlegate, Richmond, was burgled on 11 December.

Among the items taken was a maroon box measuring 13cm by 8cm by 9cm containing the ashes of her two children, who died at birth in January.

Some of the victim's jewellery was also stolen.

The suspects are believed to have forced entry into the home at some point between 4pm and 5pm via a side gate and rear patio door.

Detective constable Rajinder Chana, from Kingston and Richmond CID, said: "This has been a heartbreaking ordeal for the victim, who desperately wants her children's ashes returned.

"They are of no value to those who stole them, and we would ask that they be returned as soon as possible.

"Burglary is a particularly invasive crime but this offence has been made worse by what was taken."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kingston and Richmond CID via 101 or @MetCC.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.