THIEVES have been hindering future roadworks in Weardale after stealing gravel.

Durham police are appealing for information after receiving reports of people stealing gravel from Stanhope Common.

The gravel is to be used in some upcoming roadworks by Durham County Council but several people have been seen removing the material in vehicles.

Officers are monitoring the location and wish to remind people that any unauthorised removal of gravel will be classed as theft.

Durham County Councillor for Weardale Anita Savoury said: "This theft once again has a cost implication. The gravel needs to be replaced which has already been purchased once, and now a secondary cost is going to be incurred which has a detrimental impact on finances. Thefts such as this restrict further works being carried out due to the increase in materials and constraints on budgets."

If anyone has any information call 101 with incident reference number 509 of June 16.