POLICE in County Durham are holding security marking sessions to beat opportunist thieves.

Crime prevention officers are concerned that, with people spending more time outdoors as the weather improves, garden sheds and other storage units are at risk from burglars.

To tackle the problem, they have set up a series of workshops where people can have gardening equipment, especially electrical tools, such as lawnmowers and strimmers, security marked for free.

While it may not prevent a thief from making off with the goods, marking greatly increases the chances of the owner getting them back.

The sessions are taking place from 3pm to 7pm today and tomorrow, at Pelton Community Centre, next Tuesday, at Arden House, West Rainton; next Wednesday, at Sacriston Community Centre and Brandon youth club; and on Thursday, May 30, at Gilesgate Comprehensive School.

Crime prevention officer Sergeant Max Newby said: "The theft of garden equipment and furniture is always a big problem, and this time last year we got absolutely hammered.

"I hope people will take advantage of these free security marking sessions."