AN elderly couple whose garden has been persistently targeted by thieves want housing officials to find them a new home.

Tom and Freda Smith, both 69, of Firthmoor, Darlington, can no longer get insurance for items in their shed or garden furniture because so much has been stolen.

Mrs Smith, who is disabled, is afraid to go to bed at night and watches for intruders.

Her husband underwent a triple heart bypass after suffering a heart attack which he believes was caused by stress.

The retired couple, who sold their home in Lascelles Park to move into the housing association bungalow because of Mrs Smith's limited mobility, say they cannot tolerate the situation any longer.

"We both have angina and where we are living is totally unsuitable," said Mrs Smith.

"I can't go to bed because I am just too frightened. I am heading for a nervous breakdown and we feel like no one will help."

Mr Smith said: "We are like an outpost here. "We have had bird tables stolen and the shed has been broken into and cleaned out.

"We had a wooden table and four chairs which we strapped together, but they managed to get it over a 6ft fence.

"Anything that has not been nailed down has been taken. We love wildlife, but we can't even have a bird feeder."

Ward councillor Lee Vasey said the couple had been given help from estate workers and police to combat the thieves, including security lighting and a closed-circuit television camera.

Mr and Mrs Smith said they have asked Darlington Borough Council to find them a new home.

The authority said it had nominated the couple on a number of occasions for housing association accommodation, but they had been turned down.

Mr and Mrs Smith have now been nominated for a new Three Rivers Housing Association bungalow in Parkside, Darlington.

Their application includes letters of support from their doctors.

A spokeswoman for Three Rivers Housing Association said the couple's application would be considered at the end of the month.

"Demand is high for the area and each application will be considered on its merit," she said.

"Those with the greatest need will be given priority."