Stolen war medals have been found hidden in a pillowcase by shocked litter pickers.
Volunteers found the military gongs five years after they were pinched.
Priceless jewellery was also hidden in a carrier bag in the bedding, by a fence.
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They were handed to police and are thought to match those missing after a burglary in 2019.
At the time, the crime was described as a high-value burglary of two war medals, two parachute regiment cap badges, plus jewellery and several watches.
El Clarke, Clean Our Patch Community Interest Company co-founder, said the haul found in Plymouth, Devon, was a real-life treasure.
And added it was important the items were returned to their owner as reported by Need To Know.
“What we didn’t expect to find was a bag of someone’s treasures of war medals, old coins and jewellery,” she said.
“They were in a pillowcase inside of a plastic bag and mindlessly discarded over a fence.
“These items had been there for a while and the thief likely no longer had any use for them but these items will be important to the owners.
“We’ve been litter-picking since March 2018.
“We found a gun about two months ago.
“But this is the first time we’ve found something of so much value.
“The police said they would let us know any updates.
“But I haven’t heard anything yet.”
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said investigations were ongoing after the items were handed in.
“We’re in the process of checking them and then finding the owner and giving them back,” they said.
The litter pickers were praised for their community spirit.
Anna Garnett said: “Well done everyone, such a wonderful find.
“You deserve a medal.
“Really hope it can all be reunited with the rightful owners.”
And Pam Baring chimed in: “Well done Clean our Patch for reporting this find.
“What a wonderful group you are, all the volunteers helping to make our city litter-free as much as we can.”
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