AN AMATEUR musician has been left devastated after thieves broke into his house at Stable Hobba in Newlyn and stole rare musical instruments.

The man, who asked not to be named, was at work on Monday morning, March 29, when an antique violin and a flute were taken.

The Strad Copy model violin with its bow and case has an estimated value of around £2,200 and the Reynolds silver plated violin about £350.

The man believes the burglary was committed by professionals.

He said: "They did not make any mess and even cleaned after themselves.

Footprints

"I have got a cream coloured carpet downstairs and there were hardly any footprints on it and they had taken their shoes off before going upstairs."

The owner says he is particularly sad because his grandmother bought the violin for him over 30 years ago.

He added: "It's upsetting because you just know that you are never going to get them back.

"I am a very private person and those people who know I am a musician know that I play mainly piano.

"The flute was on a shelf and the violin behind my piano. But it has got to be someone who has been watching the house and someone who knows my vehicle, that's for sure."

Other items taken included a bottle of gin, a cheque book and a bottle that contained coins.