A south Shropshire town has been hit by a mini crimewave, police have warned today. Officers are now urging residents in Cleobury Mortimer to make sure their homes are locked and secure.

Thieves have broken into more than eight properties in the area in the last three months, police say.

And today, local police officer Constable Sarah Smithson is issuing “Secure your Home” packs and offering advice on ways to combat crime in the area in a bid to help people secure their homes and deter thieves.

She said: “Over the past few months there have been a number of burglaries in Cleobury Mortimer and the surrounding villages.

“I would like to remind residents that as it is getting warmer and windows and doors are left open.

“This will make them more vulnerable. Please be mindful that if you leave the premises make sure that all windows and doors are locked. Doors are locked even when you are within the premises.”

She added that anyone leaving a property empty for a period of time should let her know as well as ask a neighbour to check on the premises.

She also asked for people to be vigilant about anyone behaving suspiciously in the area and to let the police know if they see anything unusual.

Police spokesman Maria Hawkaluk said: “Police advice is to keep all doors and windows locked when you are not in the room, even if just leaving for a few moments.”

She added: “It takes just seconds for an offender to walk or reach inside through an insecure opening and grab whatever might be within reach.”