SECOND-hand dealers and customers across Blackburn were today urged to be on their guard after burglars stole £7,000 worth of jewellery.

Among the haul was Asian wedding jewellery worth several thousands of pounds.

The plea was made by Detective Sergeant Mark Lee, of Blackburn CID, as he revealed details of two burglaries at homes in Burlington Street, and Revidge Road, both Revidge.

They both happened during the day on Tuesday, but are not thought to be linked.

Wedding and engagement rings were among the items taken.

A burglar is believed to have used a screwdriver to prise open the patio doors of the house in Burlington Street, between 1.45pm and 3pm.

The house was searched and £5,700 worth of items were stolen, including two sets of Asian wedding jewellery, worth £4,000; a gold bracelet worth £900; and two Asian gold head sets with red and gold stones, worth £500.

As well as the wedding jewellery, which police said had much sentimental value for the victims, a Toshiba video player, DVD players and Alba micro hi-fi were taken.

In Revidge Road, between 9.25am and 5pm, a burglar forced a back window to gain entry.

Some £102 in cash was taken, as well as £2,000 worth of jewellery, including an 18-carat gold bracelet, gold engagement ring with diamonds, a titanium and white gold ring, a pearl necklace, ear-rings and four gold watches.

Det Sgt Lee said: "Dealers and residents should keep an eye out for someone trying to pass on these types of items.

"If they are offered anything matching these descriptions, or have information, they should contact police as soon as possible."

Anyone with information should call CID on 01254 353569, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.