Looters strike flood-hit shop in Newcastle Looters have struck at a flood-hit shop and stolen bikes worth tens of thousands of pounds, a retailer said. Thieves broke into KB Cycles in Newburn, Newcastle, close to where a modern block of townhouses was evacuated amid fears it could collapse. Piles of bricks and silt as well as gushing water have left parts of the area cut off. Julie Watson, who runs AJ Bridal Wear, next to the bike shop, said looters got in last night despite the devastation on the roads. She told Sky Tyne and Wear: "They have stolen bikes from Keith, we know that because of all the empty boxes. We haven't been allowed in yet so we don't know if the bridal dresses have been taken, if they have been damaged. We just don't know. The huge amounts of mud and debris left by the floods has rendered the area surrounding the shops unrecognisable. Some business owners said their premises were now under 6ft (1.8m) of water with still no end to the torrent that is pouring down the street. Tarmac and pavements have been torn up and cars have been left completely buried. Shop owners have been rescuing what they can from their properties and placing goods in protective plastic bags. They have also had to use ladders to bridge their way across the islands of mud that have been created by the severe weather. Local authorities have started the clear-up, with a digger being brought in to start clearing away the rubble. Police said nine bikes have been recovered and officers arrested one person who is helping with inquiries. No other break-ins have been reported. "The safety of business owners and residents affected in that area are our priority," a spokeswoman said. We have increased patrols and will continue to work with people in that area to ensure the safety of them and their belongings. Anyone concerned, or worried needs to speak to us or call 101.