THIEVES broke into a barn at a farm in the Carleton area and made a failed attempt to steal a quad bike.

Police say the break-in happened at about 12.45am on Tuesday last week (July 9) and involved four suspects, all of who had their faces covered.

They failed in their attempt to steal a quad, but damaged it in the process.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said one of the suspects was carrying bolt-croppers and another was wearing a 'bucket-style' hat.

"We are appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious people or vehicles in the Carleton and West Road area either before or after the incident to get in touch."

Anyone with any information that could help officers is asked to email jo.pickless@northyorkshire.police.uk; or to call the non-emergency 101 number, select option two and ask for Jo Pickless.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via its website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Quote reference 122 4012 1591 when passing on information.