A musician has pleaded for the safe return of her “beloved” bassoon worth thousands of pounds after it was stolen from her home.

Thieves ransacked Francesca Carpos’ home in North Finchley during a burglary on November 21, 2019.

Describing the ordeal as "horrendous", Mrs Carpos, 60, said her Fox 601 bassoon worth £30,000 was among several valuables including laptops and a TV to have been stolen from her home.

Mrs Carpos has owned the bassoon since the nineties and has used it throughout her career, with performances including playing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in Moscow.

She said: “My work is playing in orchestras and I cannot work without my bassoon. It is a devastating loss as it is the tool of my trade.

“Although it would cost £30,000 to buy a new bassoon, I suspect that it is worthless to a thief, because it is such a small and specialised market.”

A second black bassoon that she used to teach was also stolen, which she says is easily identifiable by the large scratched 'Kilburn School' on the tenor joint.

Police have confirmed that they are still investigating the burglary at Mrs Carpos’ home last year.

No arrests have been made and enquires are continuing.

Mrs Carpos added: “Although I have been kindly lent a bassoon from 'Howarth's of London', my bassoon was customised over the years, it is unique, and it was like my best friend.

"I would consider paying a reward for its safe return."