POLICE are investigating a house burglary in which power tools, jewellery and a safe were stolen.

The break-in, in Westerhope Court, Faverdale, happened between 3pm on September 16 and 4am the following morning.

PC Stew Walker, of the Darlington serious crime team, said the burglars gained entry via the rear garden, which backs on to West Auckland Road.

He said: "Due to the quantity of items stolen, it is likely a vehicle would have been used.

"Items taken include a safe, jewellery and power tools, the total value of which is not known.

"The victim, a 48-year old woman, believes that those responsible have returned for further items in the days following the burglary while she has been away from the house.

"It is with this information in mind that I am appealing for anyone living in or passing Westerhope Court/Westpark Drive area to come forward if they have seen anything suspicious or anyone in the cul-de-sac during the times stated."

Witnesses can call PC Walker on the non-emergency number, 101, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111, quoting incident number DHM-17092014-0042.