Police are investigating a series of metal thefts from elderly people’s bungalows.

Thieves struck at several properties in Stanley, County Durham, between Sunday and Wednesday this week, April 30 - May 1.

The Joicey Gardens and Chester Road estate area appears to have been specifically targeted, with those responsible making off with copper condensing pipes from the outside walls of bungalows, which are owned by Derwentside Homes.

About 80 properties were affected, with the majority of offences having been discovered by police once the first few were reported and investigated.

PC Phil Stephenson, of South Moor neighbourhood policing team, said: “We’re aware of the problem and are actively investigating these offences.

“Metal thefts have decreased by a huge amount in the last twelve months, mainly thanks to a great deal of work by the police and the scrap metal industry.

“But, clearly, there are still some thieves out there who think they can make money by stealing goods containing metal.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Stephenson via the Durham force's non-emergency 101 number, or they can call Crimestoppers, on its 0800-555-111 freephone line.