Burglars tore a pensioner's life apart after breaking into her home three times.

They stole precious jewellery, £1,000 savings, priceless heirlooms, her mother's birth certificate, her address book with contact details for friends and relatives, and even her double glazing.

The 78-year-old wrote her account to Sussex Police in response to an article in The Argus on how police were offering £500 bounties for information to catch burglars.

Inspector Steve Curry and The Argus joined forces to launch a poster campaign throughout Brighton and Hove.

Last night he said: "This lady's letter brings home the reality of what burglary does to victims.

"The stories we hear are heartbreaking and I would appeal to everyone in this city to get behind our campaign and bring an end to this misery.

"Give us the information we need and we will do the rest."

Mr Curry was so moved by the letter he visited the victim and took her flowers.

He also contacted Andy Lang of Languard Alarms, which is fitting extra security in the woman's home free of charge.

The burglary victim, too frightened to be identified, wrote: "I am writing to tell you of my three burglaries which have made my life a misery. My heirlooms and prized possessions have been stolen.

"I wanted to research my family history and they stole my mother's birth certificate and antiques handed down by my beloved father.

"These things have much value and can never be replaced. They literally stole my identity - I kept a book with every address I would ever need, all of my friends' addresses and every telephone number and, unfortunately, a record of my debit card.

"One of the thieves used my debit card that night three times to draw out £1,000. I was left with nothing - I had no money and couldn't ring anybody because he'd taken my address book.

"Some years ago I was away from home on a short break. When I returned I found burglars had broken in and they had taken the double glazing out.

"They took my jewellery which was hidden in my integral garage - it was valuable stuff. They had also turned out drawers and the place was in a mess. I haven't been away since.

"The last burglary completely unnerved me. I got up one night and found a man in my hall - I opened my mouth to say, 'what are you doing in my house' but nothing came out.

"I opened the front door and shouted for help but there was no response.

"I've had my life turned upside down over these break-ins. My nerves are in a shocking state and it has affected my health."

Mr Curry said the poster campaign had cut burglaries but information was needed still to bring other offenders to justice. He urged people to call 0845 6070999.