A CHIGWELL estate agent has issued an appeal for the safe return of valuable leases and other documents stolen during a break-in.

Phillip Leigh Associates, of Brook Parade, High Road, was the victim of a robbery over the weekend.

The break-in was discovered by staff arriving for work on Monday morning. After an inspection, it was discovered that a safe, containing the leases and other papers had been taken.

Owner Phillip Leigh said: "We are based in what was formerly Westminster Bank premises. The thieves got in by breaking the door to the original bank premises.

"We've been here since 1966, and this is the first time we've ever had a break-in. It's very important we get these documents back."

Mr Leigh says he is prepared to offer a reward for the safe return of the documents.

Anyone with any information should call Loughton police on 020 8502 3881.