POLICE are appealing for help after a series of thefts in which tools, fuel and batteries were stolen.

Two of the thefts took place in the Middleton Tyas area,  near Scotch Corner, when thieves broke into secure compounds before stealing items from vehicles.

The stolen property included a plasma cutter, a cable detection instrument, car batteries, a compressor and approximately 400 litres of diesel.

Thieves also struck at an address in Stokesley, when they stole 14 vehicle batteries and a socket set.

The three burglaries took place between April 21 and 24 but details have only just been released by police.

PC Eddie Reid said: “If you saw any suspicious activity in the Scotch Corner or Stokesley areas around the time of the burglaries I urge you contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away.

“I am particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have been offered any of the stolen equipment and ask them to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Contact police on 101, select option two and ask for Eddie Reid. Alternatively information can be emailed to edward.reid@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk. or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.