A FORMER bodybuilder is offering a hefty reward for the return of a family heirloom stolen from his home in Prestwich.

Steve Smith (31) said he will pay £5,000 for the safe return of a valuable ring, in the shape of a bull's head, and information which will lead to a conviction.

Thieves broke into Mr Smith's home in Albert Avenue, Sedgley Park, during Wednesday, December 10.

After smashing through patio doors, the thieves stole two distinctive gold rings from an upstairs bedroom and a framed death certificate of one of Mr Smith's close friends who sadly died last year.

Mr Smith said: "It was a really unusual burglary as they ignored the television, kids' playstations and two brand new mobile phones. They either knew what they were looking for or started at the furthest point in the house intending to work their way backwards."

The bull's head ring is of immense sentimental value to Mr Smith as it was given to him by his great-grandfather. Together with the second ring, which is the shape of a belt buckle, the pair are probably worth around £500.

The father-of-four said: "I can't understand why they would take these as they are not that valuable to anyone else. I am offering the reward for the bull's head ring particularly, as it has unbelievable sentimental value.

"It was my great-grandfather's ring; he was a Taurean like me. There is only one of its kind and has been in my family for 150 years. It is very detailed and stands out in 3D, so it should be easily recognisable."

Anyone with information about the ring can contact Mr Smith on 07946 059280.

A police spokesman said: "We are investigating this incident and are looking at forensic evidence left at the scene. Both rings are very distinctive and would urge anyone who may have been offered a ring like this to contact Bury Police Operational Unit on 856 8079."