POLICE were yesterday hunting thieves who stole two samurai swords from an Army surplus store.

The 3ft blades were stolen along with other weapons from Buckshees, in Guisborough, east Cleveland, at about 2.30am.

The thieves broke down the front door of the shop, smashed a glass cabinet and stole £200 of goods, including four air pistols, an imitation gun, about 20 lock knives and a policeman's telescopic truncheon.

Jeff Carroll, spokesman for the store in Chaloner Street, said: "Although the swords were imitations, they are sharp and could really do some damage if they got into the wrong hands.

"I believe the thieves were kids because they only went for cheaper goods. They left the more expensive items behind.

"The imitation samurai swords are only worth about £25," he added.

A police spokesman said: "Weapons like these can be extremely dangerous in the wrong hands."

Police are appealing witnesses to come forward and asked anyone with information to call (01642) 302626.