POLICE are appealing for residents to be extra vigilant after a rise in burglaries in Teesdale.

Burglars have targeted homes and community buildings including Staindrop’s Scout Hut and Scarth Hall as well as Gainford Prep School.

Residents living in Barningham, Ovington, Butterknowle and Marwood have also had their homes targeted despite most of them being secure.

Sergeant Simon Rogers, of Barnard Castle Police, said: “We have had an increase over the last three weeks in various locations.

“The majority of buildings have been secured but we are appealing for people to be more vigilant and report incidents and anything suspicious.

“If anyone has any information please get in touch on 101.”