HOMEOWNERS have been warned to be on their guard after a string of burglaries.

During the past two weeks private homes in Brackenbeds Close in Pelton and others in Ouston, near Chester-le-Street have been singled out by a thieves.

Police, who have stepped up patrols by plain clothed officers in the area, believe the thieves are keeping watch on houses and waiting for residents to drop their guard before running in to snatch handbags and other valuables.

Acting sergeant Mick Kirtley said he believed the thief or thieves were hiding in fields at the back of the houses watching householders move between rooms.

He said: "Before the curtains or blinds are closed in the early evenings, the homes are like goldfish bowls. In all these cases the back doors are open and peoples' moves can be monitored."

He said the thief runs in to kitchens and utility rooms snatching property, which is on clear view from the outside, while owners are elsewhere.

He added people had been informed about the thefts through Neighbourhood Watch groups.