A BURGLAR used the same paving slab to break into the Craven Tuck Box twice in 10 days.

Andrew Midgley, owner of the Sheep Street shop in Skipton, said he could not believe the burglar had had the cheek to pick up the same slab from outside neighbouring shop Hamilton's twice to break into his shop.

He arrived at work at 6am on Tuesday to find the stone through the glass in the door. Tobacco and the till drawer which had a small amount of cash in had been taken. The drawer was later found in the alleyway next to Hannam's.

Ten days ago the paving slab had been thrown through the shop window. The burglar stole £1,000 worth of cigarettes and £100 worth of lighters.

Mr Midgley said the break ins were costing him money that he could not really afford.

He said that the majority of the shops around him were part of multi-national chains with lots of money but he was just an independent sole trader trying to offer a service and "make ends meet."

"We will catch him," said Mr Midgley. Security has been stepped up and CCTV footage is being scrutinised.

Mr Midgley thought that all young people should try being self-employed for six months to see how hard it was to run a business.

He thought that perhaps then they would have more respect for the businesses that are providing a service to the community.