POLICE are trying to track down a lorry involved in the theft of thousands of pounds worth of diesel fuel.

The incident took place at a highways depot at Leeming Bar on October 27 but details of the theft have only just been released by police.

At around 10.15pm that day – a Saturday – a white Daf 65 curtain-sided lorry entered the North Yorkshire County Council depot on Northallerton Road.

The occupants stole £7,000 worth of diesel from a large fuel tank then the vehicle left the depot at around 11.40pm and drove off in the direction of Leeming.

Officers have now released a CCTV image of the vehicle and are appealing to anyone with information about the theft to come forward.

PC Mark Wood said: “At the time of the theft there were temporary traffic lights on the A684 and it is believed the lorry was standing in a queue of traffic prior to turning into the depot.

“If you were in that line of traffic and you saw the vehicle pictured, please contact the police or Crimestoppers, as you may have information vital to the investigation.”

He added: “I would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area around the time of the theft.”

Anyone who can help is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for Mark Wood or Bedale police. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111.