DETECTIVES are appealing for information following a recent series of break-ins in an area of relatively new housing.

Police received reports of three separate burglaries on the outskirts of Shiney Row, near Houghton-le-Spring.

All were reported in the vicinity of Whitworth Park Drive, overnight from Thursday to Friday, September 5 to 6.

In the incidents offenders damaged shed or garage doors and attempted to access properties.

Among a number of items stolen were an electric sander, other tools and children’s toys.

Investigating officers are treating the incidents as linked.

They are keen to identify a man who was riding a bicycle in the area between 4am and 5.25am, on September 6.

Officers have now asked for residents of the Elba Park development to check any CCTV footage they may have and to contact police if they see anything suspicious.

Detective Constable Alex Hadwin, of Northumbria Police’s Southern burglary team, said: “We take this type of criminality very seriously and inquiries are ongoing to locate those responsible.

“Burglary is a crime that can have a long-lasting effect on victims and on the community as a whole, so I would like to reassure residents that we are committed to bringing offenders to justice.

“On the morning of September 6 we believe a man on a bicycle was acting suspiciously in the area.

“I am keen to identify and locate that individual, so would appeal to the residents of Elba Park to check their CCTV systems on that morning and pass any information to police.

“I would also ask those living in the area to ensure all windows and doors to sheds and garages are locked, and any valuables not left on display.

“We will continue to work with our neighbourhood teams who have increased patrols in the area, and anyone with any concerns is asked to contact police.

Anyone with information about the break-ins are asked to contact 101, quoting reference 113223B/19, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555111. Alternatively, information can be passed on via email to 2947@northumbria.pnn.police.uk.