POLICE in North Yorkshire are appealing for witnesses and information after burglars smashed their way into a house in Airton, near Malham.

Thieves broke into the property, which is located on the edge of Airton, towards Settle, at some time between 4pm and 6pm on Wednesday, January 15, by using a large stone to smash the front door.

A spokesman for the police said: "We are requesting the public’s assistance to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"In particular, we are appealing for information about any suspect vehicles or people seen in the vicinity at the time, or days prior to this crime.

"Due to the location of this property, its believed that the offenders must have attended in vehicle. It would seem likely that the vehicle may have been parked nearby, perhaps on the Airton to Settle road. "Police would be interested to speak to anyone who may have seen a vehicle, perhaps parked in an unusual location or acting suspiciously in and around the area.

"Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Richard Sutcliffe. You can also email richard.sutcliffe@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

"If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12200008462."