Burglars have stolen Christmas presents from a family in Wiltshire, two weeks before Christmas day.

The burglary, which took place overnight on Tetbury Road in Sherston, near Malmesbury, has left the victims "extremely distressed", and now Wiltshire Police are appealing for help.

The house was broken into between 10pm and 11pm on Sunday, December 10, while the occupants were out and multiple rooms were searched, but only a pile of Christmas presents were stolen.

“We believe this would have required more than one journey and a vehicle would have been involved,” said a spokesperson for Wiltshire Police.

“Incidents of this nature are always extremely distressing for the victims but at this time of year it is no doubt even more upsetting.”

Inspector Liam Winstone, who has been dealing with the burglary, has now warned Wiltshire locals to be cautious of leaving their Christmas presents on display while going out.

“If you are going away or out for an evening over the festive period, please consider hiding Christmas presents, ensure lights are left on or on a timer,” he said.

“Try to leave a vehicle on your driveway so it would appear somebody is home and install security cameras if possible.

“It is also worth informing a neighbour if you are leaving a property unoccupied for a lengthy period of time so they can keep an eye on your home.”

Extensive enquiries are now being carried out, and Wiltshire Police have urged anyone who may have information about the burglary in Sherston to contact police immediately.

You can do this by calling 101 and quoting the crime reference number 54230131379.

Anyone who lives in the area should also check their CCTV and doorbell camera.