A FAMILY has been left distraught after a tool box which once belonged to their dead son was stolen.

The thief is thought to have struck shortly after midday on Tuesday in Burnopfield, near Stanley, County Durham.

The 73-year-old householder raised the alarm minutes after discovering that a toolbox had disappeared from the garage.

PC Yvonne Dutson, of Stanley police, said: "The loss in this case was more keenly felt because the box and the tools were of very considerable sentimental value. They once belonged to the victim's late son."

Police investigating the theft would like to speak to a man who appeared at the garage door at the time the theft was discovered. He spoke briefly to the victim before leaving the scene.

"This man was a casual caller who could have been in the garage and who may have been surprised to find someone there when he returned," said PC Dutson.

"We would like to speak to him or to anyone else living in the area who may have spotted a man fitting his description. A van was also seen in the area that morning and the two may have been connected."

The stranger is thought to be in his 40s, about 5ft, of medium build, with grey, untidy hair. He was wearing a suit jacket and trainers.

The stolen toolbox is black, with a red lid. Some of the tools are inscribed with the letters "S" and "H".

Anyone with information is asked to call (01207) 232144.