THIEVES stole thousands of pounds worth of fishing equipment from a house while the owners were asleep.

The suspects broke into the property on Mayes Lane, Ramsey via an unlocked backdoor and smashed a window to access the garage.

They then took £4,500 worth of Daiwa angling accessories including rods, reels, tackle and a remote controlled bait boat.

A handbag was also snatched, and there was damage to the front door of the garage.

The burglary took place between 10pm on Monday March 17 and 3.30am on Tuesday March 18 and police would like to hear from anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area or is offered fishing equipment for sale.

Anyone with information should call PC Linda Whiting at Clacton police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.