POLICE are warning the equestrian community to remain on the alert after a spate of thefts from stables.

Tack worth more than a thousand pounds was stolen from a property near Melsonby, in Richmondshire, North Yorkshire, earlier this month, as well as a four-wheel-drive Daihatsu, which was later found abandoned at Croft, near Darlington.

A police spokesman said that even when unable to break into buildings, the thieves were determined not to leave empty-handed.

Four blankets were stolen from horses in a field near Spennithorne, Wensleydale, on Monday night. Each was worth about £100.

Anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously or an unfamiliar vehicles around the village is asked to contact police, by telephoning (01609) 783131, or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.