A DOPEY burglar gave detectives a lead - by leaving his footprints in the snow after targeting a Thornton Heath house.
The prints were examined by a forensic officer after the burglary in Colliers Water Lane.
The burglary happened between 7pm and 10pm on Saturday night.
A quantity of jewellery and cash were stolen.
Resident Sophie Rowlatt said: "You would think if they are going to do something so terrible they would actually cover their tracks when they're done.
"I bet they'll be in a rush to chuck their boots out now."
Another resident, Kat Heawood, said: "It's very scary. You never think something like that will happen to you.
"I hope they can catch whoever did it and I hope the victims get their belongings back.
"It's a horrible way to start the new year."
There have been no arrests at this stage.
If you saw someone acting suspiciously in the area or have information on the burglary, call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.