THIEVES have stolen more than £3,000-worth of camping equipment from an exhibition.
The goods had been on display next to Butterfly World, at Preston Park, Eaglescliffe, for the past nine weeks.
The display, which is secured by a 7ft aluminium security fence, includes tents, clothing, camping stoves and accessories.
But overnight on Wednesday, thieves managed to gain entry to the compound from the rear, climb the security fencing and use a tool to slice open the back of the storage tent.
Once inside, they stole £3,200- worth of camping equipment, which included ten tents, two circus tents, seven stoves, seven sleeping bags, 15 inflatable mattresses and seven rucksacks, along other items.
A spokeswoman from Cleveland Police said the thieves would have needed some form of transport because of the large amount of stock stolen.
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Anthony Gamesby, on 01642-302226, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article