MORE than 4,000 alcoholic ice pops were stolen early yesterday.

The vodka and Red Bull ice pops, which are not on sale in this country, were imported by a local business and were being stored in the house, in Falstaff Court, Darlington, until they were sold on.

Police received a report at 4.30am that burglars had forced a rear door and stolen the ice pops, which have the brand name Freaky Ice.

Now officers are warning that the lollies, which are 4.8 per cent alcohol, should not be allowed to get into the hands of children.

Anyone with any information about the burglary or who comes across the ice pops, should contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.