A LYME Regis man has spoken of his heartbreak after his parents home was broken into – two weeks after his mother died.

A LYME Regis man has spoken of his heartbreak after his parents' home was broken into - two weeks after his mother died.

Around �2,000 in goods, including war medals and the mother's jewellery, were stolen from the Tunstall family in Uplyme last month.

Justin Tunstall, 53, from the Town Mill Cheesemonger, said he and his 85-year-old father had been caused further distress by the burglary.

He said: "It has been very distressing. My father's clearly very upset about it. He and my mother had been living in that house for 20 years and this is the first time they had any problems.

"We've had the heart-ache of losing a mother and wife - and it's a kick in the teeth at a time when we are trying to get over stuff."

The distinguished service medals belonged to Justin's uncle and included a Flying Corps, African Star and European campaign.

His mother's wedding ring was among the jewellery taken.

Justin said: "My uncle flew during the war -over Germany - and was decorated for it. For some scumbag to climb through a window and get them feels disproportionate.

It would have been nice to go through my mother's jewellery and be reminded of her and events, and when we gave the various bits to her."

He added that the offenders could have taken computers or money, which could have had more cash value, but instead took things of sentimental value.

He said: "I would say to the thieves to think again - it's not a small amount of cash you are taking, but you're taking people's memories and recognition of deeds. You're robbing from their soul, rather than their pocket."

Anyone with information on the incident, which took place between August 13 and 22, can call police on 08452 777 444.