THIEVES with a blooming cheek are being offered an amnesty.

They are being given the chance to return two shrubs stolen from tubs at an east Cleveland resort. If the offer goes ignored, they face prosecution on being discovered.

A spokeswoman for Saltburn in Bloom last night revealed the group had suspicions as to the crooks' identity.

Hundreds of plants were stolen from displays two years ago, when entire flower beds were stripped bare.

A handful of volunteers work throughout the year, organising fundraising events, to raise the money to try to win decorative glory for the seaside town.

One of the 3ft shrubs was stolen last Friday - the second over the weekend, or early yesterday.

The shrubs, in tubs donated by makers Tricor, were stolen from Woodrow Avenue, on the approach into town.

The main display planting is imminent and organisers are worried that the plants will be targeted by the thieves.

"We are quite concerned," said a spokesman. "Everyone is keeping an eye on things." There are various security systems in place, including cameras.

The group is asking residents spotting anyone acting suspiciously to telephone police on (01642) 230316