A one-of-a-kind sentimental piece is missing after thieves ransacked a Keremeos home.

On New Years Day, Keremeos RCMP responded to a break and enter on Chopaka Road.

Police arrived to discover the suspect or suspects gained entry by breaking the glass on the ground floor door while the owner was away.

鈥淭hey entered the residence, stealing a .270 Winchester rifle and a saddle with the words 'In memory of Ralph C Bent' on the back of the saddle seat,鈥� says Cpl. Don Wrigglesworth.

RCMP say the stolen rifle was recovered on Penticton Indian Reserve land from a person who claimed to have purchased it from individuals who reside in the Chopaka area.

The saddle however is still missing. Wrigglesworth says it has deep sentimental value to the resident of the home.

If you have any information to assist police in solving this crime or returning the saddle please contact Const. Paul Tithecott at the Keremeos Detachment, 250-499-5511.