A man suspected of theft has been charged after allegedly making off with thousands of pounds worth of roof tiles from a North East building site.

Police received reports from a concerned member of the public on Wednesday (March 22) shortly after 6pm, who had seen a forklift loading a van with a large amount of roof tiles from a housing development site in Ashington.

Arriving at the scene 15 minutes later, police identified the vehicle and intercepted the driver before arresting a 33-year-old man.

Northumbria Police found almost £5000 worth of the suspected stolen ceramics which were seized and returned to the owner.

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Speaking on the incident, Detective Sergeant Gemma Morton, from the Northern Area Command’s Criminal Investigation Department, said: “This was a great arrest which came about as a result of vigilance from our members of the community who reported to us straight away.

“Thanks to a speedy response by officers in the area, the suspects were soon located and arrested, and quick-time enquiries brought about a charge.

“I want our communities to know that thefts and burglaries of any kind are not acceptable, and we are determined to place offenders before the courts and secure effective justice for victims.

“We know just how invasive these types of crimes can be and how much a of an impact they have on people which is why we come down heavily on anyone found to be involved in this type of wrongdoing.

“As ever, I’d ask people to continue reporting suspicious behaviour to us and help us stop thieves in their tracks by keeping valuable out of sight, doors locked and properties secure.”

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The man has since been charged with theft and is due to appear in court next month.

A second man, 55, also received a caution for theft.

To report an incident or suspicious activity, use the “Tell Us Something” page on Northumbria Police's website.