Photos sourced from a stolen iPad have been released in the hope of tracking down a thief. 

Essex Police were called after images of a woman and a child appeared on the iphone photo stream of the owner, who was unaware the £400 tablet had been stolen.

The tablet is believed to have been stolen from a property in Oakwood Hill, Loughton, while renovations were taking place on December 15 and 16.

Investigating officer, Pc Leon Rossi, said: "The house owner had no idea that the iPad had been taken until she saw the pictures of the unknown woman and child on her iPhone.

"She checked the house and found that the iPad had been taken.

"Whoever took the pictures probably had no idea that the victim's ipad, iPhone and computer were all synchronised for photo storage.

"It is possible that the pictures were taken by a family who bought the iPad without knowing it had been stolen.

"We hope that they will come forward to help us with our investigations into the burglary.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who recognises the woman or knows where the picture of the child was taken."

Anyone with information should contact Pc Rossi at Loughton CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 .