THIEVES sent a year's worth of gardening up in smoke after setting alight an allotment shed.

The culprits entered the allotment in Wilton Lane, Guisborough, at about 1am yesterday morning.

After forcing their way into a shed, they stole garden equipment before setting fire to the building.

The shed was completely destroyed along with tools and plants. Police said the incident had come the night after thieves broke in and stole chickens from the Wilton Lane allotment.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Jacqui Fieldhouse, of Guisborough Police, on (01642) 302626.