Police are searching for a woman after about £50,000 cash and jewellery were stolen from a family home.

Gaytri Mondal worked as a housekeeper in Chigwell but disappeared on September 9 2008 along with £10,000 cash and various items of jewellery.

The 43-year-old has east London connections and was last known to be living in Plaistow.

Investigating Officer Pc Matt Holman said: "Gaytri had earned the trust of this family over a long period of time. However, this trust has been abused and she is suspected of taking a large quantity of money and jewellery.

"We have been searching for her in Essex and London, but have so far been unable to find her. As a result, we are asking for the help of the public who will hopefully provide us with information on her whereabouts."

Mondal is described as Asian, approximately 5' tall, with a rounded figure and speaks limited English.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact Essex Police on 0300 333 444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.