Thieves blocked a main route into a village after rolling a stolen caravan on its roof and fleeing the scene. 

Officers from North Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident, which happened at about 11pm on Friday (May 3) near Stokesley.

Suspects are said to have used a black BMW 3-Series on false plates to tow the Swift Continental caravan.

The vehicle, with the fake numberplate YG56 ZLK, was used to hitch the caravan at a field in Ingleby Greenhow before being driven through Great Broughton and along the B1257 towards Stokesley.

The driver struck a telegraph pole after losing control. They then fled the scene.

The road had to be closed for a short amount of time so the car and caravan, which were extensively damaged, could be recovered.

Since the incident, North Yorkshire Police have launched an investigation and have asked drivers for dashcam footage.

Read more: 

Get more from The Northern Echo and stay informed with your subscription. Click here to find out more.

A spokesperson for the police force said: "We have launched a full investigation over the theft of the caravan and several motoring offences.

"We’re appealing for the public’s help, particularly anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the route between Ingleby Greenhow and Stokesley between 11pm and midnight on Friday (3 May).

"We’re urging residents and businesses with CCTV and drivers with dashcams to check their footage.

"We’re also appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious or has any other information that could help our investigation.

"Please email ben.dowson@northyorkshire.police or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

"Please quote reference 12240077876 when passing on information."