Pigeon pinchers strike five times

Dozens of pigeons, chickens and hens have been stolen in Gateshead.

Raiders have targeted allotments five times over the past month in Ryton, Greenside and Winlaton.

During the latest incident three racing pigeons were stolen from an allotment in Ryton. Police said thefts had caused a lot of distress to owners.

A police spokeswoman appealed for anyone with information to come forward. Pigeon carriers were also stolen during the raids.