A MAN who has had his home ransacked by thieves who stole war medals belonging to his two grandfathers and his great grandfather has said he feels violated and no longer happy in his own home.

The burglary took place at a property in Sweyns Mead, Stevenage, when hundreds of war medals, including three sets awarded to members of the home-owner’s family, were stolen.

Among those medals taken were the 1939-45 Star, Italy Star and Africa Star - awarded for the campaigns of World War II - and The War Medal - issued in recognition of general service during World War II. These medals were all awarded to a grandfather of the victim.

Medals awarded to his other grandfather for services during World War II, as well as medals awarded to his great grandfather for services during World War I, were also taken.

The total haul of medals stolen is worth more than �25,000.

Cash, collectable coins and a number of electrical items were also swiped.

The victim, who did not wish to be identified, began collecting medals with his grandfather. He said: “Financially speaking, lots of valuable items have been stolen. However, the main thing for me is the attachment I had to the medals.

“I lost my grandfather in November and some of the medals were awarded to him so I feel like one of my final links to him has been taken away from me.

“The family medals can never be replaced.”

He continued: “The burglars were disturbed by one of the neighbours, but every single drawer and cupboard had been emptied.

“I don’t like being in the house because it doesn’t feel like my house anymore.

“I just feel violated that someone has been in my house. They have gone through literally everything.”

The incident took place between 2am and 2.15am on Sunday, August 7, when the home-owner was on holiday.

Entry to the property was gained by forcing open a window in the porch. Once inside, a search was carried out before the offenders made off through the rear of the property, round the side gate and out the front in the direction of The White Way.

The offenders are described as two white men, aged between 20 and 30 and between 5ft 5ins and 5ft 9ins tall.

One was wearing dark clothing and the second was wearing a grey hooded jumper.

PC Rob Phillips, of Herts Police, is investigating and said: “Burglaries have such a deep impact on their victims and often items of sentimental value are selfishly taken away without a second thought for the victim.

“I am asking for the public’s help in tracing these items and helping us determine who is responsible.

“Have you encountered these items since the burglary?

“If you can help, please call me immediately via the non-emergency number 101.

“Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”