Detectives have today reissued CCTV footage in a further appeal for information about a man suspected of carrying out a burglary in Ongar.
A 58-year-old man from Epping was arrested last week in connection with the investigation but he has now been eliminated from enquiries.
Officers have now re-released a CCTV video showing how quickly a man entered the High Street cottage shortly after 5pm on Wednesday December 3.
He broke in through the back door and entered the kitchen while the occupant, a woman aged in her 70s, was asleep in a chair in the adjoining room.
The intruder took a handbag which was later found discarded at Castle Street, Ongar but a purse, cash and a gold Parker pen, together valued at a three-figure sum, were stolen The pen was of considerable sentimental value and had been given to the woman by her late husband, 40 years ago.
The burglar is believed to be aged between 40 and 60 and was wearing a beanie hat, North Face jacket, trousers and gloves, all of which were black or dark-coloured.
Anyone who can identify the man should contact detectives at Loughton CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
Anyone who can identify the man should contact detectives at Loughton CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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