THE jewellery of a dead woman was stolen in a raid on a funeral home as her body lay awaiting burial.

Huntleys Funeral Directors in Ipsley Street, Smallwood, was broken into at the weekend and a large safe containing the jewellery, cash and donation cheques was taken.

Margaret Davis, who died suddenly on August 31, was one of four bodies at the parlour at the time. Her funeral is being held today.

Distraught daughter Wendy Footitt said: "When I heard about the break-in I felt sick. My main concern was they could have touched her but I've been assured they didn't go near her.''

She added: "The jewellery was of great sentimental value. Mum had been wearing a signet ring which belonged to my dad, who died seven years ago. We're absolutely devastated."

Two gold necklaces, including a distinctive chain with a turtle fob on it, a pair of gold hoop earrings, a wedding band and a gypsy wedding ring with two diamonds and a ruby were stolen.

The jewellery was in a plastic box with Huntleys' name and address printed on it.

Mrs Footitt said: "We would ask for it to be handed back or if anyone has any information about the break-in or sees any jewellery which sounds like mum's, to report it to the police."

Huntleys director Neil Bough said: "We're disgusted somebody has broken into where there are deceased people. How anyone could sink so low is unbelievable.

"They must be sick in the mind. It just shows no respect for anybody, for the family and friends of the deceased. How would they feel if it were their mum or dad? "

A police spokesman said: "Relatives of the deceased in the care of the funeral parlour do not need the extra upset this sort of incident causes.''

Anyone with information can call Redditch police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.