A DISTINCTIVE relic from the First World War was among the haul when thieves targeted a home in a Yorkshire Dales village.

At Christmas 1914, Princess Mary tobacco tins were sent to soldiers serving on the front line, after the 17-year-old daughter of George V organised a public appeal.

A surviving example of the clearly-marked decorative brass tins was stolen when burglars struck in Constable Burton, near Leyburn, on December 6. Also taken were a safe, jewellery and some ornaments.

Detective Constable Yvonne Lumbard said: “The tin is very distinctive and it’s possible that someone may have tried to sell it to an antique dealer, collector or a member of the public.

“I am appealing for anyone who has been offered one of these recently to get in touch. I would also like to hear from anyone who knows the whereabouts of the tin now.”

Other items stolen in the burglary include vintage watches, gold rings, including one with a black centre with a gold “o” in the centre, a gold locket, gold watches and Whitby jet jewellery.

The safe was found the following day dumped in a stream on nearby farmland.

Anyone who can assist or who saw any suspicious activity in the village between 11am and 7pm on December 6 should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for Northallerton CID.

Alternatively email CIDNorth@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.