RAIDERS stole thousands of pounds of stock after breaking through a roof into a gift shop.

Jewellery, watches, pens, a laptop computer and a drill were among the items stolen from Michou, in Post House Wynd, Darlington town centre, on Saturday night.

Brian Waddington, who opened the shop with wife Micheline Dussart three months ago, arrived yesterday morning to find most of the stock taken.

He said: "When you consider that we used everything we had to set this business up, it feels like somebody has basically kicked you.

"This was going to be a step to sorting out our future. We might have to consider whether it is worth staying open."

He said the raiders got in through a property in Buckton's Yard and went across the roof before trying to burgle Post House News, in Post House Wynd.

They were put off by an alarm and entered Michou instead,via the loft.

He said: "We don't really know how much was taken until we take stock. It's magpie stuff and we are obviously a target.

"Clearly, we are going to want to step up security and that involves massive additional costs."

Inspector Brian Maudling, from Darlington police, appealed for information.

He said: "Obviously, people will be trying to sell this stuff so if anyone is offered anything they think is suspicious we'd be very interested to know."

Anyone with information can call police on (01325) 467681.