THE changing rooms of a North East accident and emergency department were broken into and the belongings of busy nurses and doctors stolen as they battled to save lives just two days before Christmas.

Thieves gained entrance to the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough through a window and stole purses, money and bags of medical staff.

Staff have been left devastated following the theft and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

One staff member said she couldn't find the words to describe what her 'A&E family' were going through.

Posting on Facebook she said: "Everyone's Bags, Purses, Money... the lot has been swiped!

"We are talking lots of Nurses, Drs, HCAs, AP, ENP belongings.

"So please, please if anyone knows anything, anything at all please do the right thing & have a heart."

A spokeswoman for NHS South Tees Hospitals, which runs the site, said: "On behalf of all the staff in the major trauma department can we say a huge huge thank you for your kind words, messages, gestures and pizzas following a break in of the staff changing area in A & E last night.

"We have been overwhelmed and touched by your kindness. Thank you so much and remember keep A & E free for serious or life threatening illnesses! Merry Christmas everyone!"

Cleveland Police have confirmed they were called to the incident at around 6pm on Friday, December 23 and are investigating.

The staff member added: "There are no words to describe what our A&E Family are going through. Just heartbreaking.

"This is the thanks we get for helping, Caring, looking after your loved ones & Saving lives.

"Absolutely Disgusting!

"Please could you help share and bring these thieves to justice!

"We work endlessly hard trying to save lives of these theirs loved ones! Someone out there knows who has done this and I honestly hope they have a heart and admit this because it is utterly devastating."

Another A&E worker Kerry Louise Langley posted: "I've honestly never felt so heartbroken knowing that they had their dirty hands on our stuff!

"I know that myself and work colleagues are appreciative of all your support! Please help catch these low lives."

Last night some of the nurses affected by the burglary took to social media to thank members of the public who had supported them in the wake of the shocking crime.

Anyone with information is urged to call Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101.