Police have arrested a 34-year-old man from Preston on suspicion of a burglary.

An elderly lady in Ashton had thousands of pounds worth of jewellery and valuables taken in the incident.

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The 91-year-old woman was the victim of a burglary in late February.

She was in her home on Cottam Lane on the evening of Friday 28 February when she discovered a bedroom window was wide open after being closed and locked.

The lady said she had been asleep between 2.30pm and 3.30pm on the day and the thief could have entered through an unlocked patio door.

A quantity of distinctive gold jewellery including broaches, necklaces, rings and an Omega watch have been stolen which is all of great sentimental value as well as monetary value.

Detective Inspector Warren Atkinson said: “This has obviously left the victim feeling vulnerable that she has been targeted in her own home, especially as she was present at the time and at some point, potentially has been in the same room as the offender unknowingly when they have entered her address. She is very upset about the property that has been stolen and is aware that it could have been discarded, melted or sold for a fraction of its value with no care for what it means to her.

“If anyone has any information at all that could help us to trace the people responsible then I would ask them to contact police as soon as possible.”

Officers believe a man was seen in the area around the time who has been described as white, in his late 30’s, around five feet eight inches tall with a pale, chubby face.

He was mainly bald with a little hair at the sides and was of stocky build. He walked with a limp and at the time was wearing a grey jumper that had blue at the top of the chest area and was push a blue ladies bicycle.

The 34-year-old man has been bailed pending further enquiries.

DI Atkinson said: “If anyone did see anyone acting suspiciously in the area on the afternoon of Friday the 28th February and thinks that they have any information that could help then I would urge them to contact police on 101 quoting log number LC-20140228-1317.”

Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.