HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned after a spate of incidents in which burglars sneaked in to homes, stole car keys and then made off with the vehicles.

At least six cases have been reported to police over the past two weeks across North Durham.

The opportunist thieves struck twice in Consett, three times in Chester-le-Street and once in Seaham.

The burglars have used the stolen cars to transport property taken in the burglary and, in many cases, the cars were abandoned afterwards.

Among the cars stolen have been a Peugeot 307, a Land Rover Discovery, an Audi A4 and a Vauxhall Vectra.

Durham City-based crime prevention officer, Sergeant Dave Young, said: "Householders need to be more aware of security and ensure doors are locked even when they are at home, so opportunist thieves can't just walk in and take whatever they see.

"Keys left lying on a table are an easy target for criminals and should be hung out of sight."

Sgt Young said it was not clear at this stage whether the crimes were connected.

Anyone who wants help and advice on home security should ring a local crime prevention officer via the Durham Police non-emergency number, 0845 6060 365.