THIEVES are preying on the frail and elderly by stealing plants from a nursing home.

One of the pleasures for residents at Brierton Nursing Home, Hartlepool, was sitting outside in their peaceful gardens.

The thieves struck on Tuesday night, digging up and stealing seven evergreen shrubs planted by the families of residents. Police are investigating.

Home manager Carol Barnard said the most vulnerable people in the community were suffering.

"One of their pleasures is to go and sit out in the garden and this is affecting them," she said.

It is not known whether the thieves were organised and stole for commercial reasons, or were children or jealous gardeners.

Ms Barnard said one of the residents helped with this year's planting of the flower beds, and everyone enjoyed watching the shrubs and flowers grow.

Any witnesses around the Brierton Lane area, on Tuesday night or early on Wednesday, are asked to contact police on (01642) 302126.