A THIEF snatched rings worth �20,000 from a jewellers in St Ives yesterday (Tuesday) before fleeing in broad daylight.

A THIEF snatched rings worth �20,000 from a jewellers in St Ives yesterday (Tuesday) before fleeing in broad daylight.

The man, who did not cover his face during the theft, made off with four trays of yellow and white gold rings from Tres Belle jewellers in Crown Street.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened at about 1.20pm.

The man asked staff if he could try on a watch, but when the shop assistant opened the display case, he grabbed four trays of white and yellow gold rings before running off.

Some of the rings were set with precious stones and the total value is estimated at about �20,000.

The thief is described as white, 5ft 8in to 5ft 10in, and of medium build. He had short hair and a tattoo on the side of his neck. He wore black sunglasses.

Detective sergeant Jim Donington said: “This theft happened on a busy shopping day in St Ives with many people around.

“He did not have his face covered so I believe a number of people will have seen him in the street near the shop, before or after the incident.”

INFORMATION: Anyone with any information should contact Det Sgt Donington at Huntingdon CID on 0345 456 456 4, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.