A NEW Forest family has been left devastated after thieves ransacked their home and fled with wrapped Christmas presents.

Burglars stole jewellery, bottles of champagne and two cameras during the daytime raid on the Eling Hill property near Totton.

Police have launched an appeal for witnesses to come forward and help them solve the crime which took place between 8.45am and 5.50pm on Wednesday, December 22.

DC Paul Williams said: "Any house burglary is terrible but to be broken into just three days before Christmas and have wrapped presents targeted is extremely distressing.

"I am appealing for witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the Eling Hill area on Wednesday, to contact me immediately.

"The stolen items would have probably been carried away in plastic bags or a dark-coloured rucksack which was also stolen.

"We would like to speak to anyone who saw a vehicle parked nearby, in the cemetery area or near the A326, which could have been used by the offender."

Anyone with any information about the Eling Hill burglary is urged to contact DC Williams at Totton police on 0845 045 4545, or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.