JEWELLERY valued at over £50,000 was nicked during a raid on two properties in North Lanarkshire.

The jewel thieves struck between 7am and 6pm on Wednesday, January 18.

The properties targeted are in in Westcraigs Road and Miller Street, Harthill.

Police say the residents were not at home during the break-ins.

Constable Craig Jeffrey, from the Housebreaking unit based at Airdrie Police Station Office, said: “During the house-breaking in Westcraigs Road, the jewellery stolen was valued at over £50,000 and is described as being very distinctive 24ct Asian gold.

“A quantity of jewellery including a very distinctive pocket watch with a chain and butterfly charm attached and a silver Swarovski crystals necklace with a tree pendent was stolen from the house in Miller Street.

"The stolen jewellery stolen from this house is believed to be worth around £5,000.

“Obviously these items, although worth a lot of money, had extremely high sentimental value to the owners and as such I urge anyone who has any information that could assist in tracking down the person or persons responsible for the break-ins and thefts to contact Airdrie Police via 101.”

Alternatively calls can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.