A HAMPSHIRE pensioner crippled with a degenerative illness sat helpless in his own home as a burglar rifled through his precious possessions.

The disabled 74-year-old was unable to raise the alarm as the intruder helped himself to jewellery, a stereo and mobile phone from the property in Southampton.

Police said the raider continued searching the house until he was disturbed by the man's 68-year-old wife returning from a shopping trip.

Detectives said the victim, who suffers from multiple system atrophy, a degenerative condition similar to Parkinson's disease, had been sitting alone in his conservatory when the break-in happened.

Although he knew he was being burgled, he was powerless to do anything about it due to his chronic disability.

The intruder forced his way through the back of the house in Heath Road, Sholing, about 5.40pm last Thursday.

Police said he had searched all rooms and was starting to remove property when he was disturbed, causing him to run out of the door.

Described as white, 6ft, broadly built with short cropped hair, he escaped with a large amount of jewellery including a diamante brooch in the shape of a white flower, a mauve enamel orchid-shaped brooch, a silver chain with an amber pendant and a gold ring inset with diamonds.

Today detectives branded the burglar "particularly callous" and appealed for the public's help in catching him.

DC Nick Clark, of Bitterne CID, said: "This offence is particularly serious. An elderly and vulnerable victim has been subjected to a stressful incursion in his own home. The offender had no concerns with the victim being there while he committed this callous crime. He acted with complete disregard for the health of the victim, who was powerless to act, as he helped himself to the family's valuable and sentimental possessions."

He added: "We are keen to speak to anyone who saw a male of that description acting suspiciously or carrying property in that area last Thursday or anyone who is offered, or sees, jewellery for sale matching the above description."

Information to Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545, or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.