A BIRD collector who shows across the North has had eight of his hens stolen.

The ko shamo birds were taken from a shed on the Paxton Street allotment site, in Ferryhill, County Durham, overnight on Friday, April 4.

Police are appealing for information about the break-in, which took place between 8pm on Friday and 10am on Saturday.

And they want to hear from anyone who is offered birds matching the description - two white hens, a pair of whites, a trio of blues and a blue/red cock - for sale.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Chris Metcalfe at Ferryhill police station on 101, extension 6614721, or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.

The crime reference number is SL1400559.