WARNINGS were reissued last night to homeowners across Darlington after refuse bags were found slashed in back lanes, sparking concerns about identity theft.

Numerous bags of rubbish were found torn open and documents scattered around in residential streets in the town centre and Denes areas.

The discovery has raised fears of identity theft and fraud, as the information printed on letters and bank statements can allow others to gain access to personal details.

The sacks had been left outside before the scheduled collection time - some had only been put out the night before - but had been slashed open by the time refuse collectors arrived.

Residents have again been reminded to shred all their personal papers before disposing of them, and not to put out their rubbish bags before the morning of collection.

Identity theft has become an increasing problem nationally over the past months, and repeated warnings have been issued to people to ensure they dispose of important information securely.

Police and Darlington Borough Council wardens patrol streets in the town on a regular basis, and have warned that identity fraud is treated very seriously.

Councillor Steven Harker, council cabinet member for consumer and environmental services, also represents the Pierremont ward where several refuse bags were found slashed, and has reissued warnings to homeowners in the area.

"A lot of people still are not aware that identity theft goes on in such a way, and that so much information about them can be taken from a letter or credit card statement," he said.

"This is an issue that is treated very seriously, and the police and wardens are always on the look-out to catch the individuals who are doing it.

"We give leaflets out from time to time warning people of the security they should take in their homes - including against identity fraud - and will be doing so again soon."

A spokeswoman for the borough council also warned people to be vigilant.

"To minimise the threat of bin bags being slashed we would advise people to only put them out on the morning of collection and to shred any personal or important documents or bank statements," she said.

Anyone who has queries about the date or time of refuse collections in their area can call Darlington Borough Council's customer services department on (01325) 388799.