Popular English cricketer Ben Stokes has announced an intensive search for valuables. They were stolen by brazen robbers who threatened the player’s family right in the house.
The crime took place in mid-October, but the player was able to talk about it only now. Masked robbers broke into the house while his wife Clare Ratcliffe and children Layton and Libby were inside. The thieves made off with what Stokes called “irreplaceable” treasures, including family jewels and an Order of the British Empire awarded in 2020 by Queen Elizabeth II.
“Several masked people broke in and stole valuables from the house. They made off with jewelry, other valuables and personal items, many of which have deep sentimental value to me and my family. They are irreplaceable,” Stokes described the terrifying event that unfolded in the family’s based at Castle Eden in County Durham.
The 33-year-old England captain posted photos of the stolen items on social media, including three necklaces, a Christian Dior handbag and an engraved ring.
Stolen valuables:
“I am asking for any help in finding the criminals who did this. By far the worst part of this crime is that it was committed while my wife and two young children were in the house. Fortunately, no one in my family came to any physical harm, but understandably the experience took a toll on their psyche,” added Stokes, who was with the England team in Pakistan during the heist.
This is not the first time that a famous cricketer has been targeted by thieves. His bag was stolen last year while he was traveling to England’s Six Nations rugby match.
