BURGLARS who stole an ageing PC from an Ipswich writer's home have dealt him a devastating blow just weeks before an important deadline.The computer contained more than 20 years' of Vincent McInerney'swritings, including "more than a third" of his forthcoming book on the maritime history of Liverpool.

BURGLARS who stole an ageing PC from an Ipswich writer's home have dealt him a devastating blow just weeks before an important deadline.

The computer contained more than 20 years' of Vincent McInerney'swritings, including "more than a third" of his forthcoming book on the maritime history of Liverpool.

He had been working full-time on the book to meet a deadline at the start of May, and is appealing for the return of his machine so he can continue doing so.

"The computer is a few years old now and it is virtually worthless to anyone else," said Mr McInerney, of Ranelagh Road.

"I only use it as a word processor and some of the work was backed up, but a lot of it wasn't and there are short stories and bits and pieces on there I won't be able to replace. That's why I desperately need it back."

The maritime book, for which he secured a deal with reputable publishers Chatham, was due out later this year and Mr McInerney was required to finish writing within weeks – but the burglary has brought about a hasty postponement.

It happened between 3pm and midnight on Fridayand was discovered when Mr McInerney returned from taking his son to university in Sheffield. The burglars also stole a Toshiba television as well as the Compaq Tower computer – thought to have a combined value of £300.

He has lectured on a range of subjects at various educational institutions and is currently preparing to give classes in film at Suffolk College.

Detectives are investigating the burglary and anyone with information is asked to call Det Con Kevin McGlinchey at Ipswich CID on 01473 383133.