THE air turned blue, but not for the first time, when thieves struck at the home of impersonator Gary Smith.

Since Christmas, Gary has been entertaining crowds in the region with his Chubby Brown impersonation.

While foul-mouthed comedian Chubby Brown continues to court controversy in his private and public life, Gary has already experienced the down side of fame. Thieves ransacked his van and garage while HGV driver Gary was asleep at his Guisborough home in the early hours of Friday morning.

They escaped with music equipment, microphones and an amplifier, all used in his act.

Luckily Gary's prized possession, an original Chubby suit, was not stolen and he is determined to carry on with his act. He said: "I'm a great fan of Chubby Brown and I love doing the act.

"My original suit was hung in the van, but the thieves obviously didn't know what it was.

"I would have been devastated if that had gone missing. It is irreplaceable."

Anyone who has information about the theft should call the police on (01642) 302026.