'It was an amazing result which seems miraculous': Northern Ireland dealer aids police and helps reunite London family with grandfather's stolen priceless WW1 medals

A Northern Ireland antiques business has played a crucial role in returning a priceless piece of family history following a burglary in central London.

Ballymena-based Antique Cash Monkey, which buys and sells antiques, vintage jewellery, and collectibles online, became unexpectedly involved when the individuals believed to be responsible for the theft contacted the business seeking a valuation for a set of World War One medals.

Unaware that the items were stolen, owner Chay Irwin engaged in routine correspondence as part of normal business practice.

Just days later, the London family also reached out to 40 organisations UK wide including Antique Cash Monkey, desperate to find out if anyone had come forward regarding their grandfather’s stolen heirlooms — medals of deep sentimental and historical value.

Recognising the connection, Chay immediately alerted police and provided crucial WhatsApp messages and information. Thanks to this quick thinking, officers were able to track down the culprits and safely return the medals to the family.

Chay explained: “From the moment we realised there was a connection, we knew we had to act quickly. It was incredible to see everything fall into place and play a role in helping the police track down the culprits.

"After the burglary, the family contacted dozens of organisations across the UK in the hope of tracing the medals. The fact that the individuals responsible attempted to sell them — and that Antique Cash Monkey was able to connect both sides and provide information directly to police — was instrumental in their recovery.”

The Distinguished Service Order (DSO) medals, awarded to Major Robert Stuart Carter, are one of Britain’s most prestigious military honours, recognising exceptional leadership and gallantry in active operations. They stand as a testament to Major Carter’s bravery and enduring legacy.

In a message to Chay, the grandchildren of Major Carter, Jan, Kim, Lee and Buzz explained: “Just to repeat our most sincere thanks in acting as you did, because it directly resulted in the simply wonderful news that our Grandfather’s medals were recovered in a police raid.

"They are now back in the safe possession of the family – an amazing result which seems miraculous.

"After the original burglary/theft, we contacted around 40 organisations. But int he end it was your action which led to this astounding result – without your vigilance and kindness we would not be celebrating! Brilliant.”

Chay added: “Both the family and police officers have since emailed us to say the medals wouldn’t have been recovered without our intervention. Knowing we helped reunite someone with such a treasured piece of their family’s history is deeply rewarding.

"It’s not every day you get to return a family heirloom that carries so much emotion and significance. Moments like this are why I love what I do. Being able to bring a family back together with a piece of their legacy — it’s far more than business. It’s a real privilege."