DISTINCTIVE jewellery is among a number of items stolen in a spate of burglaries in Richmondshire

A house in the Ellerton area, near Catterick, was broken into between 11am and 12.20pm on Saturday, August 19.

The suspects gained entry by smashing a window and stole distinctive jewellery including a sapphire eternity ring, a yellow-golf garnet ring, a pair of earring studs and a yellow-gold diamond necklace.

A burglary occurred at a service station at Aldbrough St John overnight on Thursday, August 17, where entry was gained by forcing a window open.

A Snap On diagnostic machine was stolen along with a Milwaukee wheel gun, a Milwaukee angle grinder and a Saab car parked outside the premises was interfered with.

There was an attempted burglary at 1.43pm on Monday, August 7 at a house on Cow Lane, Middleton Tyas, but it is believed the suspects fled empty handed when the burglar alarm was activated.

PC James Leathley, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “It is unclear at this stage if the incidents are connected, but that is certainly a line of enquiry that is being considered.

“For all of the incidents, I am looking for information about any suspicious people or vehicles that were seen in the area.

“In the meantime, I urge local residents and business owners to keep your property secure at all times, continue to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity without delay.”

Witnesses should call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for James Leathley or email james.leathley@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.