DETECTIVES are seeking witnesses following a spate of suspected break-ins.

The incidents happened at St John’s Hall, in Hamsterley.

These two men pictured were among a group of people caught on camera outside the property shortly before a break-in took place.

Detectives are keen to speak to them to clarify their whereabouts.

The burglaries are believed to have taken place between January 23 and March 5 and during one incident a large fireplace was stolen.

As a result, the owners have been forced to remove all valuable and historic items from the premises and new security measures have been put in place.

In addition to the four people captured on camera, detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have been inside the building or close by.

DC Phil Collingwood, of Durham Constabulary, said: “As a result of the thefts and damage all the historic metal work has had to be removed from this building by the owners to stop further damage being caused.

“It is sad that the fabric of this building has had to be altered as a result of these crimes.

“I urge anyone with information about any people who have attended the hall, or the whereabouts or the stolen fireplace to get in touch with the police, either directly or through Crimestoppers.”

  • Anyone with any information should call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident 254 of February 7.