DETECTIVES from North Yorkshire Police are appealing for help from the public in their efforts to trace three distinctive, original paintings stolen during a burglary at a private house in Skipton.

The theft from the property - which is not being identified for crime prevention reasons - occurred on Saturday 28 October.

The three paintings are of Turkmenistan Akhal-Teke horses by the artist Bridget Tempest.

Each painting is in oil on gesso, measuring 18inches by 12 inches within a three-inch thick, gold coloured frame and are each valued at £2,000.

The only other items taken were a small number of Turkmenistan bank notes, a silver coin from the North Yemen bearing the head of Empress Maria Theresa and three silver medals.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who has any information regarding the stolen property, and particularly from anyone who is offered the paintings for sale.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crime Witness line on 01423 539334.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.