Family’s stolen camera torture

PLEA . . . Del Holt at the scene of the break-in. His son Andrew is in the picture.

A DEVASTATED family who had their home ransacked by thieves are appealing for the return of a camera containing photos of their beloved son.

Del and Diane Holt are urging anyone who finds the silver Fujifilm camera to hand it in. The camera was stolen from their home in Thornley Park Road, Grotton, on Friday.

The couple, who lost cash and jewellery during the burglary, are desperate to get the camera or its memory card back - the theft came just months after the death of their newlywed son Andrew (23) who collapsed playing football in April.

Del said: “Several items they stole had sentimental value but the camera has the most and we are desperate to get it back. We hope the thieves can find it in their hearts to return it.”

Del’s parents made the discovery when they arrived at the house to let the dog out.

Thieves had ransacked several rooms between 8.30am-12.30pm.

More than 50 items of jewellery were taken, including a Raymond Weil watch and a diamond solitaire ring - the latter bought for Diane after a spell in the Christie hospital.

Detective Constable Ged Hollywood said: “The family has been devastated that the camera with pictures of their son has been taken.

“The items that were stolen have some value, but the camera and its contents are priceless.

“I would appeal directly to them to return the item: you don’t know the pain and upset you have caused to a family grieving the tragic loss of a loved one.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161-856 9080 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.