A LARGE haul of tyres has been stolen from a lorry parked overnight in a layby on the A66 near Barnard Castle.

Police were alerted to the incident at 6am on Tuesday, February 10, when the driver of the vehicle woke to find his trailer had been targeted.

It is believed the theft took place sometime after 7.30pm the night before.

Detective Sergeant Gavin Wilkes, of Durham Police, said: “A significant quantity of Goodyear tyres were stolen during the raid.

“Large sections of the lorry’s curtains were removed during the theft so that the load could be accessed.

“We believe that those responsible must have used a big vehicle in order to take the items away.

“We are hoping that someone may have witnessed the theft or have information regarding the whereabouts of the stolen tyres.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Wilkes on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.