(Image: Newsquest)
A "VITAL" piece of medical equipment has been stolen during a burglary in a North Yorkshire town.
The county's police force said the break-in happened in Evelyn Drive between 11.25am and 12pm on Monday, October 5, while the resident was outside gardening.
The suspect entered the home through a bedroom window and stole a CPAP machine, police said.
The machine helps keep a person’s airway open while they sleep by providing a continuous flow of pressurised air through a mask.
However, the power supply and facemask needed to operate the device were not taken.
North Yorkshire Police is asking for the public's assistance following the burglary.
A spokesperson for the force said: "We’re appealing to any witnesses including anyone with any doorbell cameras.
"In particular, we are appealing to anyone who finds the device dumped or abandoned in the Sandybed area of Scarborough or is offered one for sale in suspicious circumstances."
Anyone with information is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police by emailing joseph.prole@northyorkshire.police.uk or by visiting the force’s website, or alternatively, call 101.
To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Please quote reference 12260195761.