POLICE are calling on the community to help stop thieves on a ‘crime spree’ after a spate of quad bike thefts in the area.

Last night (Sunday, December 14) a green Yamaha quad bike and a chain saw were stolen from a farm at Woodland, Teesdale, followed by the theft of a black Audi A4 from a farm at Butterknowle, in Teesdale, which was left with keys in the ignition.

The quad bike was found today hidden behind a wall at the west end of Woodland village. However, the stolen Audi, registration V659 DFT, is still missing and police are concerned it may be used by the crooks to commit further offences.

Thieves have also targeted several farms around the county within the last week, although not all attempts were successful.

On Wednesday, (December 10) a blue Yamaha quad bike was stolen from a wooden shed in High Lands, in Teesdale, and on Thursday evening (December 11) another green Yamaha quad was taken from an unlocked farm shed in Newbiggin, Teesdale.

Police believe the green quad bike was seen being driven across land near Witton Castle at around 10.15am on Friday morning.

The bike was seen passing through locked gates with two males on it, and one of the men was seen getting into a silver Ford Focus Estate, registration RY51 FNJ.

Neighbourhood Inspector Kevin Tuck of Durham Police said rural crime is still rare, but is urging people to ensure quad bikes and outbuildings are properly secured.

He said: “We are trying to get on top of this current crime spree and are asking for community help. It is unusual to have this level of linked crime in the area in the space of a week.

“In the first instance we need sightings of the black Audi A4 or the silver Ford Focus or reports of similar situations were a crime may be being committed. Police actions are being carried out but we need the public to help as our eyes.

“The suspected driver is known to the police and is wanted. The stolen vehicle has been circulated to members of the farm watch scheme and is still outstanding."

He added: “We still have a problem with keys being left in vehicles and we need outbuildings locking and quads chained or secured by other measures.

“We are again asking farmers and those living in rural areas to ensure their properties are secure. We have got to stop making it easy for these thieves to strike.”