Police have appealed to Brighton and Hove's criminal fraternity to help catch a burglar who stole money a widow had collected for charity.

The thief also took all Marguerite Marsh's jewellery, including her engagement and eternity rings and other irreplaceable family gifts during the burglary at her home in Richardson Road, Hove, on March 2.

Mrs Marsh's main concern, though, was for the £30 she had collected for a sponsored walk for The Martlets Hospice in Hove.

Investigating officers were so impressed with her concern for others, they had a collection which raised more than double the amount stolen.

PC Justin Burtenshaw presented Mrs Marsh with the £75 and appealed for help in catching the person responsible for the break-in.

He said: "It was clear that it was charity money and we were disgusted that anyone would steal it from her.

"I think even the criminal fraternity in Brighton and Hove would not approve and I am appealing for them to help."

Anyone with information should phone 0845 6070999.