A plot to burgle the Buckinghamshire home of late entertainer Cilla Black has been foiled, her eldest son Robert has said.

A professionally cut circular hole was discovered in the perimeter fence of her Denham home, ahead of her funeral next week.

It is believed the burglars may have been looking to break into the house on the day of the funeral, when everyone was away.

Robert Willis, her eldest son, said today: "I cannot believe someone would stoop so low at a time like this.

"It's inconceivable. Thankfully it was discovered in time."

The news came on the day of the entertainer's inquest, where a coroner ruled the star died accidentally when she suffered a traumatic head injury in a fall.

A statement released by her former publicist Nick Fiveash added: "A plot to burgle the Buckinghamshire home of the late Cilla Black has been foiled today.

"The police were immediately informed, 24-hour security has been increased on the property and all valuable assets including art, jewellery and her personal items have been removed and taken to a secured unit at an unknown location."

Mr Fiveash added: "It looks as if they have been preparing to burgle the house during the funeral.

"The hole in the chain link fence was cut in a very secluded place and it was not there before.

"It's a difficult time, today was the inquest and next will be the funeral. Her sons have been really brave and dignified and are carrying on for their mum."

Police are carrying out further investigations.

The family have asked for their privacy to be respected.