TWELVE active shotguns worth a total of £15,000 have been stolen during a burglary.

The theft has sparked fears they could fall into the hands of hardened criminals.

The weapons – which included double and single barrel guns – had been under lock and key at a detached property in Woodleighton Grove, Uttoxeter.

The break-in happened on Monday between 5am and 9.20pm while the businessman who owns the house was away.

The intruders, who smashed their way into the property through a kitchen window, also escaped with two expensive watches worth £7,500.

The house, which is up for sale and is in a quiet cul-de-sac on the outskirts of town, was turned upside down during the raid.

The police are now waiting for the householder to do a stock take of other items missing.

Officers investigating the crime say the guns, which are active, had been fully registered for recreational use. They were kept in a locked cabinet which had been forced open.

Inspector Gary Haynes, Uttoxeter's Neighbourhood Policing Commander, said: "Obviously we would like these shotguns back as soon as possible. We have informed all surrounding police forces that we have had 12 shotguns stolen and we are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

"The fear is they could fall into the wrong hands." Inspector Haynes said that although no vehicle had been seen in the vicinity of the property it would be "unlikely" that the offenders could have carried 12 shotguns away.

Scenes of crime officers were at the property on Tuesday scouring the rooms and surrounding area for clues to the identity of those responsible.

Officers were also carrying out door-to-door inquiries.

A man who answered the door of the property to the Post & Times on Wednesday said: "I'd rather not say anything."

A neighbour, who declined to be named, said: "It is worrying to think that 12 shotguns have been stolen.

"I had no idea the house contained any weapons. The sooner the police recover them the better. If they were to fall into the wrong hands who knows what might happen?"

Anyone with information is asked to call Uttoxeter Police on 0300 123 44 55 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.