It is the second time the medals have been stolen, after they were taken from a car in the 1980s, but were returned after a media appeal.

The medals were left hidden in a public place, the authorities were informed of their whereabouts. One of the medals had been partially scratched, revealing that it was not solid gold and therefore had negligible material value.

Inspector Danielle Underwood, of Avon and Somerset, said officers carried out forensic and CCTV inquiries and spoke to people living in the area.

“These items understandably have huge sentimental importance to the victims and they are extremely anxious to have them returned,” she said.

“Any burglary can have a devastating impact on victims – not only is there a financial or emotional impact, but it can also make people feel unsafe in their own homes.”

Meade was one of Great Britain’s most successful Olympic riders, a triple Olympic gold medalist and the first British rider to win an individual Olympic title.

In addition to the two Olympic gold medals won in Munich, he also won Olympic gold in Mexico in 1968 and five World Championship medals.

Police are appealing to anyone who saw any of the items, saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area or has information that could help the investigation.