POLICE are appealing for witnesses after thieves stole around £3,500 of goods in a high value raid on a house.

The crooks removed padlocks to a converted stable block at the rear of Main Street, Helperby, near to Easingwold, to gain entry.

The burglary took place between 1.30am and 2.30am on Saturday, January 29 while the house owners were in bed.

Items stolen included three petrol lawn mowers a black Briggs and Stratton, a green Suffolk Punch and a green Atco cylinder.

A black Specialized mountain bike, a red/maroon-coloured ladies’ Raleigh with a grey basket on the front and a white BMX trick bike with 247 printed on the frame were taken too.

A black leather horse saddle was also stolen in the raid.

PC Steve Robinson, who is leading the investigation, said: "It is clear that the offenders were well prepared.

"Due to the sheer bulk of the items that were stolen, the offenders will have had to use a large vehicle such as a transit-type van or flat-bed truck.

"It is also vital to report anyone who has tried to sell or off-load petrol lawn mowers, bicycles or a horse saddle matching the descriptions."

Anyone who can assist the investigation should contact PC Steve Robinson, at Northallerton Police, on 0845-6060-247 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.