Officers in South Shields have recovered a haul of suspected stolen property following several thefts from vehicles – and now they want the public's help to find it a home.

Officers are asking residents who have had items stolen in recent months to help identify the property, which includes large tool boxes containing specialist tradesmen's equipment, and heavy duty gardening equipment.

Neighbourhood Beat Manager for Whiteleas, PC Neil Watkin, said: "This is a substantial recovery of property worth several thousands of pounds.

"If we can trace the owners, this will ease any financial loss to the victim and reassure people that the police are doing all they can to investigate these crimes."

Anyone who recognises their property among the haul should contact police on 03456 043 043, extension 65046.

Theft from motor vehicles dropped by 17.7 per cent over the last year in South Tyneside.

Motorists can continue helping the police to maintain this downward trend by following security tips including: locking all doors and closing windows when leaving your car, not leaving anything on display and keeping a record of the property's serial numbers .

Police also advised motorists should try to use a secure car parking facility and take any sat nav systems, which fit onto the dashboard, with them when they leave a vehicle unattended.