A MAN is due in court charged with a spate of burglaries across County Durham.

Mark Cousins, from Langley Park, has been charged with four counts of burglary in relation to break-ins in New Brancepeth, Esh Winning and Lanchester.

All of the incidents happened over a one-month period, with two burglaries reported at the same address, within five days of each other.

Police say a number of personal items were taken from each of the properties, including jewellery and electronic devices, which it is hoped will be returned to the owners. 

Mr Cousins, 39, of Davis Crescent, has been charged with four counts of burglary in connection with the incidents.

He was also charged with possession of a class A drug.

He attended Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court on November 21 and is due to appear at Durham Crown Court on December 13.