VANDALS ran amok at Consett YMCA over the weekend before stealing hundreds of pounds in cash and equipment.

The thieves forced open a ground-floor door before causing damage to furniture and fittings, the cost of which is estimated to run into thousands of pounds.

Fire extinguishers were also discharged releasing a dried powder throughout the premises. A quantity of cash and two distinctive BMX bikes worth £300 each were also stolen.

The bikes, each made by Dyno specifically for competitions, were silver and had mainly red and blue lettering.

PC Andy Phillips said the thieves struck at some point during the weekend. He said: "The YMCA provides a valuable facility for the community, and staff are understandably upset at the extent of the damage and the loss of valuable property.

"There is every likelihood the clothing of those responsible will be stained with white powder from the extinguishers. We would like to hear from anyone with information about those responsible or anyone who has been offered bikes."

Anyone with information is asked to call Consett police on (01207) 504204 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.