An elderly couple whose home was ransacked by burglars have begged those responsible to return a treasured wedding ring.

Gilbert and Jean Caisey’s Hamilton Parish home was targeted last week by thieves who made off with a huge jewellery haul believed to be worth thousands of dollars.

The couple, who are both 76 and have been married more than 22 years, have been left devastated by the break-in and the loss of watches, rings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. “They have lost their faith in humanity,” their 27-year-old granddaughter told The Royal Gazette.

“They have lost all the jewellery they have accumulated over the years.

“They knew something was not right the moment they returned to their home and saw all their possessions strewn across the house.

“My little sister who lives with them is scared to go to sleep at night because the burglars broke in through the window in her room.

“It’s been a horrible ordeal for all of them, especially losing my grandfather’s wedding ring. They hope that those responsible find it in their heart to return all the stolen jewellery, or at the very least his wedding ring.

“It means so much to him. The only reason he was not wearing it was because he is a fisherman and doesn’t wear it when he works.”

The break-in is believed to have taken place in the Abbott’s Cliff area of Hamilton Parish between 9.45am and 1pm last Wednesday while Mr and Mrs Caisey were out with family members.

It is understood that a neighbour’s home was also targeted by burglars at about the same time.

“We would really appreciate it if the smaller businesses around the island would keep an eye out for the wedding ring along with any of the other jewellery that was stolen” said the granddaughter, who asked not to be named.

“Jewellery is not always melted down for profit. It can be sold on to other jewellers who have no idea where it came from.”

A police spokesman said: “Anyone who may have noticed suspicious individuals or vehicles in the Abbot’s Cliff Drive, Hamilton parish area on the morning of Wednesday, May 25, is encouraged to call the main police telephone number 295-0011.”