AN elderly jeweller has been left counting the cost after he was targeted by cruel thieves just three weeks before his retirement.

The callous raiders made off with more than £7,000 worth of items from his shop -- leaving the 67-year-old with a sad parting memory after years of happy trading.

Bill Banks, who owns Michelle's -- named after his daughter -- in Harpers Lane, Chorley, found his shop had been ransacked when he arrived at work last Friday morning.

The raid has hit Mr Banks hard, particularly as he had set his retirement date as March 19 when the shop will close.

He said: "Something like this would be a blow at any time, but coming so soon to me calling it a day has been hard.

"They took dozens of chains, rings, earrings and other items."

Intruders had broken into the back of an adjoining property, formerly the Highfield fish and chip shop, which has been empty for seven or eight months. They entered the jeweller's through the attic, smashing through a door at the bottom of his stairs.

Police are still looking for the thieves.

Despite the theft, Mr Banks, who had a shop in Church Street, Preston, before he set up Michelle's, said he would retire with fond memories of his work.

"I've been in the trade over 20 years and have had happy times at the Harpers Lane shop for the last seven years. Many people who come in have become friends and overall it been an enjoyable time," said the father-of-four and grandfather-of-seven.

Long-time customer Beryl Sixsmith, from Leyland, said: "I've made a special trip to Chorley to see Bill and wish him all the best.

"I was concerned when I heard about the break-in and have come to have a chat and wish him a long and happy retirement."

Mr Banks, who lives in the Eaves Lane area, revealed his plans after he closes the shop for good in two weeks.

"I hope to spend a lot more time in the peace and quiet up at my holiday home near Gisburn," he said.

This was not the first time Mr Banks has been targeted by thieves. He was subjected to an attempted robbery in the shop once before but managed to see the raidert off before he stole anything.

PC Richard Booth, of Chorley Police, said: "We would be interested to hear from anyone who saw anything in the early hours of last Friday in the Harpers Lane area and about any jewellery for sale in unusual circumstances."

Anyone with information should call Chorley Police on 01257 269021.