A RETIRED army worker has lost valuable service medals after thieves smashed into his home while he was on holiday.

Kevin Rutland, 59, of Waterson Road, Chadwell St Mary returned from Egypt on Saturday October 1 to find his back doors had been smashed during the burglary.

It happened between 7pm on Thursday September 29 and 4.40am on Saturday October 1.

There was also sentimental jewellery and hundred of pounds, of Christmas saving, stolen during the raid.

Kevin must now apply to the Ministry of Defence to have his stolen medals reissued.

He said he feels violated after the incident.

He added: "When we got home our belongings and things were all thrown across the house, they had been through cupboards and draws and taken everything out.

"Some of the jewellery was handed down from family members and will be difficult to replace, some of the jewellery that was stolen was gifts for our 40th and 50th birthdays.

"The medals are not worth thousands of pounds and if these people can't get much money for them they will probably just dump my medals.

"I am angry about what happened because the area where I live was a lovely place, but things have got worse over the past five years or so.

"We are now very paranoid about keeping things locked up and things like that."

Mr Rutland was a reservist in the The Army Reserve, an active-duty volunteer reserve force and integrated element of the British Army.

He worked with the army for more than 35 years and he retired in 2012.

Essex Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area and anyone who has been offered these items for sale.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Dc Clive Day in Grays on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."