Author David Johnson is distraught after burglars stole a computer containing a book he had spent ten years writing.

The work was just weeks away from being handed to publishers when thieves struck at his home in Hove.

They not only stole his laptop computer containing the work but also a back-up memory drive which stored a copy.

Mr Johnson, 43, said: "This is a large chunk of my life.

"Without it I will have to start all over again."

Mr Johnson, a university lecturer in Milton Keynes, is offering a "substantial" reward.

Burglars broke into his flat in St Aubyns during Wednesday evening last week while he was out.

Neighbours heard noises in his flat at 10.30pm but thought it was him.

Mr Johnson returned later and, to his horror, discovered the break-in and his ten years of research gone.

The work amounted to three-quarters of a book on the history of Southern Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Mr Johnson said: "I have just returned from a three-month research trip to Cape Town and I had been copying work straight onto the memory disc."

Police are investigating.

A force spokeswoman said: "All burglaries are distressing but we feel dreadfully sorry for Mr Johnson.

"We are doing all we can to trace the culprits and, in the meantime, we can only hope they have dumped the back-up memory disc somewhere and it can be found."

Mr Johnson's reward is for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offenders.

He pleaded with people to look out for the memory disc, a metallic cartridge the size and shape of a disposable cigarette lighter.

The silver-coloured Viglen laptop computer carries the name Futura.

A blue and white Viglen hiking bag was also taken.

Mr Johnson said: "I would be eternally grateful if someone can help."

Anyone with information should contact Hove police on 0845 6070999.