UKNIP247 
Police are urgently appealing for information after the home of 101-year-old Betty Rout was broken into, with thieves making off with her late husband’s irreplaceable war medals. The burglary occurred sometime between 10:00 PM and midnight on Friday, June 28, in Cheltenham.
Mrs Rout was asleep when the intruders broke into her home. She was awoken by the noise and witnessed the burglars leaving her kitchen and walking out the front door with her belongings. Among the stolen items were the cherished war medals of her late husband, which hold immense sentimental value and are irreplaceable.
The medals, awarded for bravery and service during World War II, were among the most treasured possessions of Mrs. Rout, who has lived in Cheltenham for decades. The theft has left her devastated and the community outraged.
Gloucestershire Police have launched an investigation and are appealing to the public for any information that might lead to the recovery of the stolen items and the identification of those responsible. Detective Inspector Sarah James, who is leading the investigation, said, “This is a heartbreaking crime that has robbed a centenarian of irreplaceable memories of her late husband. We are determined to bring those responsible to justice and return these precious items to Mrs. Rout.
Police are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area around the time of the burglary to come forward. They are also appealing to those who might be offered the medals for sale, whether online or in person, to report it immediately.
We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact us. These medals are not only of great sentimental value to Mrs Rout, but they are also a part of our shared history, and we are committed to ensuring they are returned to their rightful owner,” DI James added.
The community has rallied around Mrs. Rout, expressing their support and anger over the theft. Local veterans’ groups have also voiced their condemnation of the crime, emphasizing the importance of these medals as symbols of courage and sacrifice.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police on 101, quoting incident number 456 of June 28. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
