THIEVES who raided a town centre store by breaking in through the roof may have struck the same premises just days earlier.

Police are investigating two thefts from the Argos store in Skinnergate, Darlington, which happened six days apart.

The first theft happened at 10.51pm on Tuesday, December 28. The second was at 10.30pm on Sunday.

Assailants used the same method to gain entry in both incidents. Police said the alarms were disabled at a junction box before those responsible gained access through the roof of the store.

On Bank Holiday Monday, queues built up in the shop because staff could not access the internet or telephones to make stock inquiries.

Sergeant Marcus McCormack, from Darlington police, said it would have been a busy part of town and appealed for any witnesses to make contact.

An Argos spokeswoman confirmed there had been two burglaries at the Darlington store.

She added: "Argos takes this situation very seriously and we are currently working with the police to assist with their enquiries.

"As both incidents are with the police we can give no further comment at this time."

Staff were today making stock checks to see how many goods were taken in the latest theft.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt McCormack on 0345-60-60-365.