A GANG of thieves is responsible for a 70 per cent increase in house burglaries in a north Durham market town, say police.

Detectives in Chester-le-Street are urging residents to take precautions amid the crime wave, that has seen burglars buck the north Durham trend for recorded crime.

In recent years, this figure has been dropping steadily across this area.

The town has suffered a 70 per cent rise in house burg-laries in the area, during the past two months, compared to the same period last year.

This is despite police launching operations where a number of local men have been arrested and brought before the courts.

Detective Sergeant Max Newby said: "In many cases, the burglaries have taken place while the house had been occupied, but insecure.

"The burglars have been sneaking in through unlocked doors and windows with the resident unaware that anything was happening.

"They have stolen wallets, handbags, cash and car keys, and sometimes their vehicle as well."

Police said the gang had not targeted a specific area, with the offences being carried out across the town and at any time during the day.

The most recent incident happened on Monday, when a 28-year-old woman from the Waldridge Estate was confronted in her kitchen by a man in his late teens.

The intruder, who had entered through the unlocked kitchen door, fled the scene empty-handed.

Det Sgt Newby said: "Even if you are in the house, keep the doors locked, especially if you are upstairs for any length of time."