Silverware that was found dumped in Guildford earlier this month has now been successfully re-united with its owner, who lives in Cobham.

More than thirty pieces of ornamental tableware, engraved plaques, memorabilia and jewellery were discovered by a group of youngsters in the Bellfields area on January 2.

Detectives subsequently appealed to members of the public and made enquiries with a school in Yorkshire, the name of which had been engraved on one of the items found. 

As a result of these investigations, the found property was linked to a burglary in Cobham over the Christmas period.

And on Tuesday (January 24) the silverware was handed over to its rightful owner.

Detective constable James West, of Surrey Police, said: “This was a significant find and the owner was delighted to receive his silverware back. 

“It was thanks to the original efforts of the children in telling their parents about their discovery and the help from historians at the school, that Surrey Police could successfully return the stolen goods.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind residents to mark their property with a postcode to ensure that if they were unfortunate enough to become a victim of crime themselves, property could be reunited with them as a result.

“If any resident needs crime prevention advice they can contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Team.”