A pensioner returned from visiting a sick relative in hospital to find burglars had ransacked her home.

The 78-year-old woman is believed to have disturbed two men after she had returned from Clacton Hospital where she was visiting a close relative.

The raiders had broken into the house in Kings Road, Clacton, through the kitchen and had rifled the woman's possessions before being disturbed.

Sgt Andrew Hastings of Clacton police said: "There had been an untidy search when the woman arrived home."

Police conducted a search of the surrounding area but were unable to find any clues to the break-in which took place at about 9.20pm on Wednesday.

Det Sgt Martin Brough of Clacton CID said a complete search of the house would be conducted to look for forensic clues.

Police appealed to anyone who may have been in the area on Wednesday night to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact Clacton police on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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