POLICE are hunting thieves who stole three guns from a car.

Yesterday (Saturday, December 29), a shotgun and two rifles were stolen from a car parked on Old Mill Road in Southwick, Sunderland.

Police were called just before 12.50pm and are carrying out extensive enquiries to trace the missing weapons and thieves.

The firearms were legally held by the owner of the vehicle.

Officers said they are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the theft or has information about the whereabouts of the stolen firearms.

Detective Inspector Paul Woods of Northumbria Police said: "At this stage there is no information to suggest there is any danger to the public, however we recognise the theft could cause concern and I would like to reassure people in area we are doing everything possible to trace the firearms and the people involved.

"I'd urge anyone with information to contact police as soon as possible.

"There is an extra police presence in the area."

Anyone with information can call the police non-emergency number 101.