A GANG suspected of carrying out a series of car crimes on Sunday were being questioned by police yesterday.

Three men from Middlesbrough were arrested in connection with 20 thefts in Cleveland and North Yorkshire.

Detectives said the doors of targeted houses had been left unlocked and the thieves walked in and took car keys from coats, window sills and bags hanging in halls.

Officers estimated that the gang, who were using a stolen car, were carrying out a theft every 20 minutes.

Detective Sergeant Ted Allen, of Middlesbrough CID, said: "The fact these thefts are taking place means people are still not heeding the simple message we issue time and time again: 'Please lock your doors and windows, even when you are in. Do not invite thieves into your home'.

"Stolen cars are often passed among the criminal fraternity to commit other offences, for example, robbing old ladies, so the repercussions of this type of crime are felt throughout the community."

* In a separate incident, a 27-year-old Stockton man was arrested in Middlesbrough yesterday, on suspicion of stealing a £50,000 BMW M3 convertible from the Marton area of the town. Once again, the car's keys were stolen from the owner's house.