A thief has snatched Julian Clary's jewels from Brighton's Theatre Royal where he is starring in a panto.

A burglar walked into the 41-year-old star's dressing room while he was performing on stage and stole his £6,000 gold Rolex watch, a £3,000 silver bracelet and two rings.

Julian was distraught when he returned to his dressing room to find the jewellery had gone from a side table.

He told The Argus: "It was extremely unfortunate. The watch belonged to my grandfather, Hector McDonald, who died 20 years ago.

"Whoever took it, please give it back . . . it is of great sentimental value to me and I dearly want it returned. I'm offering a reward."

Julian, who is playing Dandini, Prince Charming's aide de camp in Cinderella, was performing at the New Road theatre on Tuesday, when the thief struck after 8.45pm.

He said: "I don't hold the theatre management responsible. They have been extremely supportive."

He insisted the theft had not put him off Brighton and said: "The audiences have been absolutely wonderful and I have loved every minute of being here."

Julian is sharing the former home of actress Dame Flora Robson with his sister Frankie Castro, his personal dresser and assistant for the six-week run.

They believe the house is haunted and, in an earlier interview with The Argus, Julian accused the ghost of stealing his sister's hairbrush.

But he doesn't believe the ghost was responsible for this latest theft.

He said: "I think it was opportunist. It is a very unfortunate situation."

Detective Inspector Bill Warner, of Brighton CID, said a thorough investigation was under way.

He said: "We need to speak to witnesses or anyone who may be offered the jewellery on the black market."

The watch is a Rolex Oyster from the Forties, with a gold face and brown strap.

Graham Sykes, general manager of the theatre, said: "We are treating this incident very seriously and are fully co-operating with the police over this matter."

Anyone with information should call Brighton CID on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.