AN exhaust system worth £1,300 has been stolen from a van.

Police believed the complete system would have taken up to an hour to remove from the Mercedes Sprinter van while it was parked in Cheltenham Court, Middleton St George, near Darlington.

The incident happened between 5pm on Monday and 7.30am on Wednesday, when it was reported to police.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or information from any individuals or garages who may have been offered a new exhaust.

Contact PC Carole Weightman on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.