FOUR North Tyne pubs have been raided by callous thieves in a spate of burglaries this week.

A Royal British Legion poppy tin was amongst the items stolen during the burglaries, on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, while damage was also caused.

Police were called to the Pheasant Inn at Stannersburn, Falstone, after receiving a report of a burglary between 6.30pm on Tuesday, and 9.30am on Wednesday. The offenders gained entry and stole property before leaving.

Staff at the Blackcock Inn at Falstone reported a break-in between 11.30pm on Tuesday and 10.45am on Wednesday, when the poppy collection tin was taken, along with other items.

A further incident was reported at the Riverdale Hall Hotel in Bellingham between midnight and 6.15am on Wednesday.

Intruders are reported to have gained entry and searched the premises, but left empty handed.

And the Battlesteads Hotel at Wark was targeted between 4.50am and just after 5am on Wednesday morning.

Two men wearing tracksuits entered the premises via the rear, causing damage and making off with cash.

Neighbourhood Inspector Pam Bridges said: "It's particularly callous that thieves would stoop so low as to steal from the Royal British Legion charity collection.

"We'd ask for any witnesses for any of these incidents to contact the police.

"We want to hear from anyone who may have seen any activity at these premises, or unusual vehicles, at the relevant times to get in contact.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.