A burglar has targeted a couple's home and left with jewellery, including heirlooms, while they watched television only metres away.
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The Palm Drive home was broken into between 7.30pm and 10.30pm on Tuesday, with the offender cutting a security screen to access the property through the laundry.
A woman in her 70s thought she heard a noise and was relieved she didn't check out what it was.
"We didn't investigate and I'm glad we didn't," her husband told The Border Mail.
"Anything could have happened.
"They could have been armed or mad with drugs or some bloody thing.
"In my younger days it wouldn't have mattered - I would have tackled him.
"But when you're older it's a bit more awkward."
The woman, who asked not to be named, was distressed by the ordeal.
Police believe the man may have previously struck multiple homes for gold and jewellery.
An expensive watch was left, but the thief took the woman's engagement ring and other items.
"My wife's been very upset about it," the man said.
"The police were here this morning, they've been very good, very thorough.
"We'll have to tighten things up a bit, put a deadlock on the door."
He urged others in the area to be wary.
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While the are is often quiet, there have been at least two other nearby burglaries in recent times.
Police on Wednesday asked anyone who saw suspicious activity near the area to come forward.
"No persons were injured during the alleged offences," a spokesman said.
"Officers from Murray River Police District have commenced an investigation and are appealing for public assistance."
The victim urged other home owners to secure their properties.
The offender appeared to have made it around the side of the home through a side gate.
"The neighbours around here all know about it now," the man said.
"The police knocked on a couple of doors.
"It's a pretty dark street, it's not well lit, and they can go into the dark and just disappear, but people should be aware."
The fear it is unlikely the jewellery will be found.
Anyone with information can call police on (02) 6023 9258 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.