Missing MBE appeal

Officers were notified after the family of Ivy Hawkins, who recently died, were unable to find the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) awarded to the woman’s late husband Captain Richard Vernon Hawkins

PC Ahmed, from the Dewsbury and Mirfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The family of the Mrs Hawkins know she always kept the MBE in her handbag, but have been unable to find the medal along with some other personal property including a gold ‘starburst’ ring, which had a turquoise stone, and a plain gold band including a small pearl.

“These items hold a significant sentimental value to the family and police are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen or been offered the items for sale.

“The MBE was kept in a worn blue box and had the inscription ‘R.V. Hawkins’ on the reverse. The medal was awarded in 1978 after Captain Hawkins service in the Metropolitan Police and Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

“Following an examination of the property we’ve not find found any sign of a break-in but the items could have been taken by someone who sneaked into the home or who may have had access.

“These items are distinctive pieces of memorabilia and are key parts of a family’s history which we would like to reunite with their rightful owners.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101 and quoting crime reference number 13150090183.