A GARDEN has been ransacked by thieves who stole a seven-year-old girl's ornamental fish.

Joyce Robson, of Evenwood, was shocked to find intruders had been in her front garden while she sat in her living room and stolen garden ornaments and coy carp.

As well as taking a water pump and fountain, it is thought they tore down a hanging basket to scoop up the carp, which are worth more than £35 each.

She said: "I know it's only a few fish and a pump, but its annoying that they've done it under our noses.

"We had the fish for seven or eight years. They were my granddaughter's fish and she doesn't even know they have gone yet. I'm going to have to just replace them and hope she doesn't notice. She would be devastated."

If anyone has any information they should contact PC Bunker at Bishop Auckland police on (01388) 603566.