Equipment stolen during spate of shed break-ins in Northumberland

In Amble, the Amble Allotment Society had 10 sheds burgled overnight between 8.30pm on Sunday and 7.30am the following day. Thieves stole a variety of tools, copper fittings and piping. The members don't keep valuables in the sheds but they were concerned about the damage and disruption these offences caused.

In the nearby Gloster Park Estate of Amble, two garden sheds were broken into and bikes were stolen. Two were recovered but two others remain outstanding; a blue/grey Cube valued at £200 and a white Apollo bike worth £200.

A second spate of break-ins was reported to police in the Murrayfield area of Seghill when eight break-ins to sheds were reported yesterday. Thieves again forced their way into the sheds before searching them. So far a hedge trimmer has been reported as stolen from one shed.

Police are asking people to be vigilant, to check their shed security is robust, and to report any suspicious activity they see around sheds.

Acting Neighbourhood Inspector Sharon Wilmore Greaves said: "Over the weekend there were a number of burglaries reported to sheds and allotments and there are additional patrols taking place in these areas, both to make inquiries and prevent further offences from taking place.

"I'd appeal for any witnesses who saw suspicious activity such as people or vehicles around these sheds or allotments to get in touch as soon as possible. We're also keen to hear from anyone who knows the whereabouts of the stolen property."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 360 29/08/16 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Anyone who would like some shed or allotment crime prevention information is also asked to contact their local neighbourhood team via 101.