POLICE are hunting thieves responsible for smashing a shop window before helping themselves to drinks.

The Three Cooks shop in Newton Aycliffe town centre had its front window smashed between 5.15pm on Friday and 3.30am on Saturday.

The raiders hurled a brick threw the window, causing £600 worth of damage, and stole several bottles of pop.

Because they stole from the shop, the crime is being treated as a burglary and police are appealing for information.

PC Simon Bacon, of Newton Aycliffe Police, said: "They caused £600 worth of damage to steal drinks valued at £5.50, and that is just pointless."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01325) 314401.