THIEVES are risking serious injury by stealing car airbags from vehicles.

The thefts of three airbags from Sadberge village during the course of Monday night is a worrying return to the dangerous trend which became common across the borough during the last two years.

It is believed there may be a market in the area for the devices, which cost between £150 and £500 to replace, but police have warned they may also be dangerous.

Each airbag carries a small explosive device, which requires those who sell them to be registered under the Firearms Act, and they are dangerous if they go off unsupported by a steering column.

All three thefts happened between 7pm on Monday and 9am yesterday, with a Nissan Micra, Vauxhall Agila and Peugeot 106 being attacked.

A radio CD player and CD changer were also taken from the Peugeot.

Anybody who has any information about the thefts is urged to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.