A GIRL is heartbroken after she lost jewellery she says was her "pride and joy".

Jade Ashton Ryan, 12, from Oswaldtwistle, took the six rings off and put them in her purse when she went swimming. She then travelled home on the Hyndburn Circular bus, but later realised she had left the purse on the bus.

It was the first time Jade had taken off the rings since her father gave them to her as a birthday present. He has since died, so the rings have great sentimental value.

Her mother Amanda Ryan is appealing for the rings' return. She said: "Jade is absolutely devastated. The rings were her pride and joy. She's been in a state ever since she lost them. It's such an awful thing to have happened. We've phoned the bus company but they say nothing has been handed in."

The rings, which are all gold, were in a blue denim purse with a flower on it. One was a band ring, another has blue stones in it.

Contact the Lancashire Evening Telegraph newsdesk on 01254 678678.