Families are being warned that a professional burglar is after their gold. The burglar, who extensively researches his victims, has struck eight times in the past month in Blackburn.

Police said he seems to be targeting wealthy Asian families living in Revidge, Lammack, Pleckgate and Beardwood in Blackburn knowing that they typically keep large amounts of jewellery in their houses.

So far he has struck eight times within the past few months

Sergeant Joe Worden said: He seems to be a professional burglar.

He does seem to do quite a bit of research on his victims and knows they are affluent.

He also makes sure that people are out of the house for plenty of time and researches his point of entry into the homes.

He also seems to be aware forensically of what he is doing. We want to raise awareness in the Asian community that he is out there.

First of all people should be careful who they tell about what jewellery they have got.

Secondly we would like people to contact us if they are approached by someone trying to dispose of a large amount of jewellery.

Earlier, a husband and wife fell victim to the burglar when thousands of pounds worth of jewellery was stolen.

The couple, of Park Crescent, Revidge, were said by police to have been left devastated by the theft of a gold and diamond choker, five gold sovereign rings, five solid gold bangles, gold coins, as well as jewellery from their wedding day 35 years ago.

No one has seen the burglar so police do not have any idea what he looks like.

Anyone with information should call Blackburn police on 01254 51212.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.