DETECTIVES hunting a burglar who stole £3,500 worth of jewellery from a Spa home are hoping this picture could bring fresh leads.

An e-fit of a man wanted in connection with a burglary in Westwood Park was released yesterday (Tuesday) by cops.

The thief had entered the home at 3pm on Friday, May 16, via an unlocked kitchen door and searched the house. Goods reported stolen include 8in and 22in 18 carat thick rope chains interwoven with white gold, an 18 carat gold ring with four emeralds and three diamonds, an 18 carat broad band wedding ring, a pair of imitation diamond stud earrings, an 18 carat gold belcher chain with heart pendant, a 14 carat rose gold wedding ring and an 18 carat 9in belcher chain.

The burglar was spotted leaving the property by the householder. However, when challenged he claimed he was looking for a public house and drove off in a D registration silver/grey BMW.

Spa bobbies are now hunting the thief and hope the e-fit will stir sightings.

The man is described as white, aged 30 to 35, 5ft 11ins tall, skinny, with short greying hair. He had a moustache and a well-trimmed goatee. His skin is described as an unhealthy nicotine colour and he wore a mid-blue stonewashed jacket, with a white chef's jacket underneath. It is possible he has a local accent.

Anyone with information is urged to call PC Stuart Mitchinson on 08457 444 888, quoting 287S/160503.