POLICE have urged householders to take extra security measures during the dark nights to beat the thieves.
The warning comes after a handbag, containing credit cards and money, was stolen from a house in Bishop Auckland on Thursday.
The thief is believed to have entered the house in Scott Street, Woodhouse Close, through an unlocked back door between 5pm and 6pm.
Detective Inspector Ted Edgar, of Bishop Auckland police, said: "I would urge people to be extra vigilant and make their properties as safe as possible, especially during these dark nights."
Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to call (01388) 603566.
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