Gold jewellery worth more than £27,000 has been stolen during a break-in in West Lothian.

Police have appealed for information after the valuables were taken from a home in Bathgate on Wednesday.

Officers believe the crime is linked to a robbery in nearby Armadale on the same night, when items of Asian gold jewellery were also taken.

The homes in Bridgend Park and Mallace Avenue were broken into between 7pm and 9pm.

A black Audi seen in the area of the Cupcake Cafe and Bar in Bathgate later that evening may have been involved.

Constable Marc Lunn said: “The theft of this jewellery has left the owners deeply upset and we are eager to ensure it is returned to them.

“I would ask anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in either Bathgate or Armadale on Wednesday evening to contact police immediately.

“In particular, we are keen to hear from motorists who were on the B8047 and who may have dashcam footage that captures the Audi we believe to be involved.

“It is likely the suspects will look to sell on the stolen goods.

“So if members of the public are approached by anyone looking to offload Asian gold jewellery with no proof of ownership, please decline and get in touch with us.”