THIEVES stole almost £6,000 worth of goods from a Tintern gift shop.

Among items stolen from Laurel Stores - which stands in the shadow of the famous abbey - were various pieces of designer gold and diamond jewellery, stamps, cigarettes, and limited edition hand-made 'Tailored Teddies', worth £70 each.

The shop has been owned by the Haywood family for over 50 years, and Helen Haywood, 51, said: "Nothing like this has happened here before.

"Whoever did it broke through the back door, left no mess and knew where everything was so they'd obviously been in the shop to suss it out which is quite scary."

Her husband Paul, 54, added: "The burglars broke into a large glass cabinet full of Hot Diamonds, and silver. Over 200 rings, bracelets, necklaces and watches were taken."

The burglary happened on Tuesday night.

Chepstow police want anyone approached by people selling goods they suspect may have been stolen in the burglary to get in touch.

Police Constable Roland Giles said: "Lots of the jewellery and silver goods have Celtic or Welsh styled motifs and there are plenty of other distinctive goods such as the six-inch hand-made teddy bears and some tourist merchandise.

"The burglary may have been carried out by opportunists or the shop could have been more specifically targeted but either way it will be difficult to sell the stolen goods without them being recognised."

Anyone with information should contact 01291 623993.