Thieves stole the ashes of a two-year-old boy when they broke into his parents' home, police have revealed.
The remains of the boy called Daniel were contained within a gold pendant which was among jewellery taken from a shrine to his memory at a house in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire Police said.
The items, which included the last Christmas present from the boy to his mother before he died, were the only things taken in the break-in, officers said.
The burglary yesterday came just a fortnight ahead of the fourth anniversary of his death.
Detective Constable Rachel Chandler, who is investigating the burglary, said: "This burglary has been extremely upsetting for the victims given the huge sentimental value that the possessions stolen contain and that the anniversary of Daniel's death is just a fortnight away.
"The offenders probably had no idea about what they were taking but I would appeal to them, or anyone who may have come into possession of these items, to hand them over to the police as quickly as possible so that we can reunite them with the family at this very difficult time."
Those behind the crime forced the door of the house in Linwood Grove between 2.45pm and 4.50pm yesterday.
Police believe they searched the house before making off with a gold teardrop pendant on a gold necklace, which contained the toddler's ashes.
They also stole a gold necklace with a heart shaped charm and a T-bar through the heart with the word "Mum" written underneath.
This necklace was the last Christmas present from Daniel to his mother before he died, police said.
A gold bracelet inscribed with the same word, given to her by her daughters, was also taken.
Anyone with information about the break-in can contact DC Chandler on 01582 394099 or via 101. Alternatively they can text information to 07786 200011.