A box containing the ashes of twins who died during birth has been stolen from a home in Richmond.

The "heartbreaking ordeal" took place at a house in Castlegate, between 2pm and 5pm on December 11.

Along with jewellery, a maroon box - measuring 13cm by 8cm by 9cm - which contained the ashes, was taken in the burglary.

Detective Constable Rajinder Chana said the victim "desperately wants her children's ashes returned."

"They are of no value to those who stole them, and we would ask that they be returned as soon as possible.

"Burglary is a particularly invasive crime but this offence has been made worse by what was taken.”

The suspects are believed to have forced entry via a side gate and rear patio door.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kingston and Richmond CID via 101 or @MetCC.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org