Officers investigating a burglary at a house near Marshfield in South Gloucestershire where two Olympic gold medals were stolen are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

The medals, won by equestrian Richard Meade during the 1972 Olympics in Munich, were taken after entry was forced into the property sometime between Tuesday, October 29 and Friday, November 1.

More jewelry, antiques, and trophies were also taken.

Angela Meade, Richard’s wife, said: “Richard passed away in 2015 and these medals hold a special place in the hearts of all our family.

“We are all extremely proud of his achievements as an event driver and although the medals have very little monetary value, they are invaluable to us.

“I would appeal to anyone who knows where the medals are to hand them over to the police or any other safe place as soon as possible, or for anyone who sees them to contact the police.”

She added: “This is not the first time medals have been stolen. In the 1980s they were stolen from a car, but following a media appeal, the medals were left hidden in a public place, the authorities were notified and the medals were reunited with Richard.

“One medal was partially scratched, revealing that it was not solid gold and therefore of negligible material value.”

Detective Inspector Danielle Underwood said: “These items understandably have huge sentimental importance to the victims and they are extremely anxious to have them returned.

“Officers carried out forensic and CCTV inquiries and spoke to people living in the area. Efforts to locate these items and identify those responsible for their theft are ongoing.

“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.

“I would encourage anyone who sees any of these items, has seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area or has any information that could help our investigation come forward.”

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