THE burglary of a Darlington home has prompted police to urge residents to lock all doors and windows wherever possible and to not leave valuable items on display.

A handbag was among several items stolen from a house in the Haughton area of Darlington, near the Education Village.

The home was broken into between midnight and 5am on Sunday, August 12, with suspects entering through an unlocked patio door.

A letter from Darlington Police's CID has been sent to residents in the area, urging them to report any suspicious activity.

The letter continues: "This incident is a rare occurrence in the Darlington area and crime rates in our town remain low, whilst the crime detection rate remains high.

"This appeal for information is one of many enquiries conducted to ensure offenders are brought to justice to ensure that Darlington remains a safe town in which to live."

Witnesses can contact Darlington Police via non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, email frederick.wood@durham.pnn.police.uk