POLICE are trying to trace the owner of ten beautiful rings believed to be stolen property.

The rings are a selection of wedding, engagement and dress rings, some believed to be very old.

The selection includes a yellow metal ring with three maroon stones, a plain yellow wedding ring, a ring with six white stones and another with a central purple stone all contained in a velvet beige pouch.

Police recovered the rings from a man who was trying to sell them at a Boscombe shop on August 22.

Shop staff became suspicious of the man and telephoned police.

The man was apprehended as he left the shop and the rings confiscated.

If the owner cannot be traced however, police may be forced to return the rings to the man.

Investigating officer, PC Helen Davies of Winton Police, said: "It is suspected that these rings may have been stolen. We are making inquiries to ascertain if anyone has lost any rings of a similar description.

"It looks like some of the rings may be very old.

"It does appear that these rings may be of sentimental value to someone and it would be a shame if these significant family items were lost to a family for ever.

"Anybody who thinks they might be able to identify the rings can view them at the Inquiry office at Bournemouth Police Station.

"We would not be in a position to return the rings at the moment as there will be an ongoing investigation."

Anyone who thinks they might be able to identify the rings has until September 26 to view them.

People can view the rings any time at Bournemouth Police Station in Madeira Road, Bournemouth, which is open 24 hours a day.

Alternatively, people with information about the rings can telephone the Bournemouth Inquiry Office on 01202 552099.