Essex Police is launching a new scheme to help protect people's treasured belongings.

As part of the wider work on heritage crime, Essex Police is introducing the new Object ID card scheme.

The Object ID card will promote the importance of recording your property properly, particularly objects of historic and sentimental value, such as medals, family heirlooms, memorabilia, art and antiques, as well as jewellery and other valuables.

The card contains tips on how to record details on an object, as well as the need to take clear photographs of valuable property.

It is hoped that the Object ID card will encourage the public to keep records of their possessions.

The idea will also be promoted to elderly residents with the help of organisations such as Age UK, The Royal British Legion and Community Agents Essex.

Object ID cards can be obtained from your local Essex Watch Liaison Officer, Age UK and Community Agents Essex venues, as well as the Royal British Legion in Colchester.