DESIGNER sportswear worth thousands of pounds is heading for the black market this Christmas, after a burglary.

A gang of thieves stole 200 bikinis and 200 sets of jackets and trousers from an undisclosed business on Team Valley trading estate, in Gateshead.

The break-in happened between 8pm on Friday, November 19, and 5.30am on Saturday, November 20.

The bikinis are made by Ellesse and are either black and red or turquoise.

The three-quarter length jackets are Berghaus, from its Jasper range and are black and grey, with matching trousers.

Anyone offered the goods is asked to contact police on 0191-454 7555, extension 64345.