HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned to close their downstairs windows when they go to bed, in an attempt to combat burglaries.

The police appeal comes after thieves entered a house in Durham Road, Crook, through an open downstairs window earlier this week.

Computer games and compact discs valued at £300 were taken from the house overnight on Friday.

It is believed that the house owners forgot to close the kitchen window before they went to bed.

Sergeant Kieran Reed, of Crook police, said yesterday: "I would urge people to make sure that they close their downstairs windows before they go to bed during this hot spell of weather.