POLICE in Stockton are appealing for people who buy stolen goods to stop the illegal trade.

Detective Superintendent Brian Dunn, of Stockton police, is hoping that by asking people living in the town and the surrounding area to stop buying the goods, it will deter the thieves.

He said: "We want people to come forward with information on people they know who are trading in stolen goods.

"These cheap items are only cheap because they have been stolen. It could even be someone you know who has fallen victim to these thieves.

"By providing information to the police, people will assist in weakening the motivation of these thieves to steal."

Anyone with information or has been offered stolen goods can contact police on (01642) 644111.