stolen by heartless thieves.

A safe, containing two Queen Victoria gold sovereigns, credit cards and Mr.

Pearman's passport, were taken from his funeral home on Middle Road, Somerset sometime during the weekend.

While declining to give the value of the sovereigns, Mr. Pearman told The Royal Gazette they were "very dear'' to him.

"My mother had them and she bequeathed them to myself and my children,'' he said. "Of all the things I have lost they are most sentimental.'' Mr. Pearman did not know where his mother acquired the treasures, but he added: "From the time I was a youngster, she had them.'' He said he noticed his safe was missing when he arrived at his office yesterday morning.

Anyone with information about the stolen items is asked to contact Det. Con.

Paul Hitchins at Somerset Police Station on 234-1010.