An appeal has been launched to find the ‘despicable’ burglar who took a substantial amount of cash and a weapon from an elderly resident’s home.

North Wales Police was alerted to a burglary at a home in Llanfynydd Road, Treuddyn, on Tuesday.

The incident is believed to have happened between 8.30am and 6.15pm, during which time the elderly occupant of the property was not at home.

Sgt Neil Hughes, of Flintshire South Safer Neighbourhood Team, said upwards of £5,000 was stolen from the home in addition to a 12 bore side-by-side shotgun.

He said: “We are appealing for witnesses or anyone who saw any suspicious vehicles in the area.

“It is despicable that this occupant is elderly and they have been targeted in this way.”

Anyone who has information about the incident can contact police on 101 with reference number 183000 82083.