WOULD-BE burglars may have escaped being caught by jumping into a river in North Yorkshire.

The attempted burglary happened at around 12.15am on August 30, at a house on The Green, Maunby, near Northallerton, but the burglars were disturbed before they managed to gain entry.

When they left, they headed in the direction of the River Swale and may have entered the water as a witness believes they heard splashing sounds shortly after the attempted burglary.

Anyone who can assist this inquiry should contact Northallerton CID on 101.