A HOUSE was burgled and a safe containing cash and personal items taken while the owner was away on holiday last weekend.

The property on Saxon Green, Escomb, near Bishop Auckland, was raided between Friday, April 10 and Sunday, April 12.

The victim was away with friends and he returned around Sunday lunchtime to find his home had been burgled.

The culprits had smashed a door to enter and had made a thorough search of every room in the house.

A safe had been taken but has since been recovered after local children found it had dumped nearby on Sunday evening. A significant amount of cash was taken but some personal items were left behind.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Tony Kent at Crook police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.