Landslide victim's home raided

The scene after a landslide at Beaminster Tunnel in Dorset which killed Rosemary Snell and friend Michael Rolfe
23 July 2012

Burglars have targeted the home of landslide victim Rosemary Snell and stolen her antique silver collection, police have revealed.

Ms Snell, 67, and Michael Rolfe, 72, were killed on July 7 when their silver Skoda was flattened in a tunnel by hundreds of tons of mud and rubble.

The pair lay dead for 10 days until rescue crews uncovered their car at the entrance to the Beaminster Tunnel in Dorset.

Police used mobile phone and credit card records to track them to the Beaminster area after the couple had been reported missing.

But just days after the discovery of their bodies, thieves targeted Mrs Snell's home in the village of Misterton, near Crewkerne, Somerset.

Police, who had forced entry to the property themselves when looking for Mrs Snell, are now searching for the women's institute stalwart's property, including silver antiques.

They fear the crooks could now sell her treasured items at car boot sales and antique fairs.

Avon and Somerset Police said the raiders struck overnight between July 20 and July 21.

Detective Chief Inspector Pete Warren said: "This is a despicable crime that has been committed by someone who may have deliberately targeted the property following the national media coverage. The offenders forced entry at the rear of the property and took specific items that are of antique value.

"I would urge anyone who may know anything about this incident to come forward and contact us. I would also ask members of the public to remain vigilant and report any sale of antique silver items to us."

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