A CAR dealer has offered a reward for information about burglars who broke into his house while his wife and grand-daughter were asleep.

Stephen Billau, of Darlington, has had his home burgled twice in recent weeks.

The first raid took place on June 11, at his family house in Greyfriars Close, between 4pm and 5.30pm.

The thieves stole £4,000 in cash which was hidden in a drawer.

Last Monday, the house was targeted again. Mr Billau's wife, Margaret and three-year-old granddaughter were asleep in the house when the thieves broke in and stole £20,000 worth of jewellery.

Mr Billau said: "My wife and granddaughter were asleep on the sofa in front of the television when the break-in happened.

"They didn't hear anything because, luckily, the burglars stayed at the back of the house.

"When my wife woke up and went into the bedroom she realised what had happened. The whole room had been ransacked.

"It has really shaken her up to think that people were in the house when she was asleep."

Mr Billau, who runs Stephen Billau and Sons, in Darlington, is offering a substantial reward for information leading to the recovery of the jewellery or the arrest of the thieves.

He said: "There was all sorts of jewellery taken. Obviously it is worth a lot in monetary terms, but Margaret is more concerned and upset about the sentimental value. These things mean a lot, and that is why I am offering money for their return.

"I have heard of other incidents around here, and it seems like this area is being targeted."

The alarm on the house was not set during the second break-in because Mrs Billau was inside, but the couple are now taking advice from crime prevention officers at Darlington police station to make their property more secure in future.

A police spokeswoman said the burglaries were being investigated.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Constable Steve Chinnar, on (01325) 742111.