TWO towns in North Yorkshire have been targeted by doorbell thieves.

In a series of alarming incidents about half a dozen bells have been stolen in Stokesley and Great Ayton in recent weeks, with more vandalised.

North Yorkshire Police said at least four wireless doorbells were stolen from houses in Crowood Avenue, Northfield Close and The Acres between Tuesday, March 25 and Tuesday, April 1, and two others have been taken from houses in Roseberry Crescent, Great Ayton.

Some of the bells had been removed entirely, leaving bare wires hanging out from the door frames, while others have had the plastic front plate stolen. A Stokesley Parish Council meeting last week heard doorbells had been seen on the floor near The Acres.

PCSO Georgina Lodge, of Stokesley Safer Neighbourhood Team, said the vandals were committing “mindless acts” and causing inconvenience to their victims, and police believe young people in the area may be responsible.

PCSO Lodge urged parents to speak to their children to explain the distress this type of behaviour can cause, and said anyone with information should ring police on 101, email georgina.lodge@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.