POLICE are urging licensees in Teesdale to be on their guard after a spate of burglaries from pubs.

Durham Police have released e-fit pictures of a couple they believe to be behind a series of thefts and attempted thefts at licensed premises in the dale.

The latest crime happened at the Wheatsheaf Inn, in Staindrop, on April 13, when a man and a woman stole money from a gaming machine, pool machine and juke box, before escaping in a red saloon car.

The theft took place after the woman complained of feeling unwell and asked the landlord for a glass of water.

While the landlord was getting the water, the couple broke into the machines.

Only hours before the burglary at the Wheatsheaf Inn, a couple attempted to steal money from the Bluebell pub, in Bridgegate, Barnard Castle, but left empty-handed.

Shortly after the attempted burglary a couple were seen acting suspiciously in the car park of the Ancient Unicorn pub, in Bowes, but left in a red saloon car after being confronted by staff.

The man involved in the Wheatsheaf burglary was described as about 40, 5ft 11in, of slim build, with black, greasy, unkempt hair and a scruffy appearance.

His female accomplice is described as about 25, 5ft 5in, of slim build, with thin blonde hair which was tied back.

Inquiries have revealed that police in Cumbria are investigating similar incidents, reported to have taken place at pubs in Brough and Kirkby Stephen.

Detective Constable Geoff Wall, of Barnard Castle CID, said: "We would urge landlords to be vigilant as these criminals seem to be travelling about the region targeting public houses.

"At the time the Wheatsheaf Inn was burgled, the Sunderland versus Liverpool football match was being shown on a big screen in the premises and most of the staff were working in one particular part of the pub.

"We would appeal to anyone who may have any information about these incidents to contact us.

"We would also like to hear from other licensees who may have been visited by these people over the last couple of weeks."

Anyone with information can contact Det Con Wall at Barnard Castle CID, on (01833) 637328.