A gang of four men are being hunted by police after nine homes and shops were hit in an all-night Edinburgh to Peebles crime spree.

Police are appealing for information following the series of housebreakings stretching from the Scottish capital to Midlothian and the Scottish Borders.

Tens of thousands of pounds worth of belongings are thought to have been stolen.

Four men who police said were wearing "dark clothing and hats" were seen in a silver Vauxhall Vectra at several locations along the route.

The Herald: Alleged crime spree stretched from Edinburgh to PeeblesAlleged crime spree stretched from Edinburgh to Peebles

The spree unfolded during the night on Thursday February 4 and into Friday morning when the homes and firms were targeted with items including clothing, tools and the luxury stolen.

Within a few hours houses were broken into, or attempts were made to force entry, in Currie, Bilston and Loanhead.

The thieves had to leave empty-handed from two attempted break-ins, but mountain bikes, outdoor clothing and cash were taken from three shops in separate raids.

A large amount of tools was stolen in Loanhead and a black Audi - registration R3GYM - was taken in Bilston.

Businesses were also hit in the Longstone and Hill End areas of Edinburgh, Loanhead, Straiton and Peebles - around 25 miles away.

Officers said they are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the car during Thursday night.

Scott Clark, based in CID at Musselburgh, is investigating the series of housebreakings and said: "This group has caused significant damage and loss to private property and business over a wide area over the short space of Thursday night.

"The silver Vauxhall Vectra was repeatedly seen at several of the locations, and we were able to get a good description of the occupants from one of the business premises.

"All four are described as of average build and between 5' 10" inches and six feet tall.

"They all wore either grey or black clothing, two also wore hats.

"I'm keen to speak to anyone who may have seen this group on Thursday night or early Friday morning, or anyone who has information about the vehicle they were travelling in and its movements over the same period.

"The stolen Audi also has not yet been found and so anyone with information on its whereabouts should also contact police."