FOUR firearms have been stolen from a North-East home.

The guns, a 10in knife and hundreds of cartridges were taken from a property in Ingleby Barwick, Teesside, and it is feared thieves plan to sell them.

Jewellery was also taken in the break-in, which took place between Sunday and Wednesday, while the owner was away.

Police are most concerned about the steel service knife and the firearms -a Magtech shotgun, a black Bruno right-handed rifle, a Beretta shotgun, a 2.2 air rifle and a Glock blank-firing handgun.

Ammunition, including 200 shotgun cartridges and 200 rifle cartridges, was also taken, and Detective Superintendent Guy Newnam said: "These items could be lethal in the wrong hands and it is vital that they are returned to police."

He said the homeowner, who is a member of a gun club, did not appear to have been targeted by the thieves.

Det Supt Newnam said: "They broke into his home, came across his gun cabinet and ransacked it.

"We are appealing to people to be aware of anybody trying to sell these guns. We do not want people buying them and firing them off all over Ingleby Barwick.

"Two of the guns in particular are very powerful and people could get hurt."

Anyone with information is asked to call Det Supt Newnam on (01642) 302226.