police were last night hot on the trail of thieves who stole three huge snowploughs.

Officers are appealing for the public's help in tracking down the thieves who took the vehicles, which each weigh a tonne.

The theft comes weeks after council gritters were out in force in County Durham when roads melted as temperatures soared into the 80s.

The snowplough raiders targeted the Teesdale District Council depot at Barford Corner, on the A688 between Barnard Castle and Staindrop.

It is believed the ploughs were taken sometime between Tuesday and yesterday.

"It's a bit of a strange thing to take," said Sergeant Bill Dutton, of Barnard Castle police.

"Obviously they're not being used at this time of year so they could have been taken any time over the last couple of days. We're assuming that someone's come along with a flat-bed truck with a hydraulic lift to put them on the back."

He added: "It's possible that someone has driven past and seen this happening but didn't think there was anything the matter."

It is not known whether the snow ploughs were taken to be sold or to be melted down for scrap.

Sgt Dutton said: "We're still waiting for a valuation from the council, but I imagine they're worth thousands, even if they're sold for scrap they could be worth hundreds, if not, thousands of pounds.

"We're making relevant inquiries with scrap dealers and warning them not to buy them."

Anyone who saw any suspicious activity near the depot or who saw vehicles transporting the items is asked to call PC Ron Creegan or Sgt Dutton on 0845 606 0365. Alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0845 555111.