DEVELOPMENTS have emerged in a “heist” case staged as part of a new television game show called Loot.

A group of eight suspects – residents who applied to take part in the show – were believed to have "stolen" £250,000 from a cash-in-transit van in Thirsk.

The show’s detectives now believe ten or more suspects could be involved in the “theft”, which took place at about 7am in a leafy area of Marage Road, next to St Mary’s Church, last Sunday.

The incident saw the "suspects" flee the scene through the graveyard, escaping with the money.

Former detective chief superintendent of the Met Police, Sue Hill is now appealing for witnesses who saw anyone carrying a large bag of coins – about 20,000 pound coins were believed to have been stolen in the "heist".

Det Chief Supt Hill said: “We would urge the public to come forward if they see anyone acting suspicious, we are looking in particular in places where you would get rid of a large amount of coins such as slot machines.”

The show's detectives are also urging a woman walking her two dogs at the time to come forward. An anniversary appeal is set to take place on Saturday at 2pm at Thirsk and Sowerby Town Hall. Members of the public are urged to attend and call the show with information on 01845 591526.