A PUB landlord has issued a £1,000 reward for information after vandals tried to set fire to five cars parked outside his family home.

John Howe, his partner Carole Jacques and their two children were away from their home in Flag Terrace, in Sunniside, when the attack happened on Tuesday night.

But the incident has shaken Mr Howe, landlord of The Moss Inn, in Sunniside, and his family.

Mr Howe, 62, said: "We could have been in the house at the time, and if they'd managed to set the cars alight, the garage and the house would have taken fire too. I think the wind and the rain saved the situation.

"I would pay £1,000 for information leading to a conviction and if people want to speak to me, it could be quite confidential."

Mr Howe, who trades cars as Legion Motors, said about £3,000-worth of damage has been caused to the vehicles - a Renault Megane, a Subaru Legacy, a Citroen AX, a Ford Fiesta and a Hyundia Lantra.

Police say all five had their windscreens smashed and scorch marks on the Renault Megane point to an attempt to start a fire. All five cars were doused in petrol.

The incident happened between 5pm on Tuesday, February 27, and 8am on Wednesday, February 28.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Jim Gratton at Crook police station on 0845-60-60-365, or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.