INTRUDERS RANSACKED homes in Church Stretton and stole cash and jewellery in a series of raids over the weekend, police said today.

The homes were broken into during the hours of darkness on either Friday or Saturday night, with each being untidily searched.

The burglars forced windows and doors to get into the five properties.

Some of the items stolen included a vase, keys, a shoehorn and a silver-plated candelabra, but police said jewellery and cash had appeared to be the main target of the raiders.

Two of the homes targeted were in Oaks Drive, with the others in Oaks Road, Watling Street South and Stretton Farm Road also broken into.

Police have launched an investigation into the raids and have called for witnesses or anyone with information to step forward.

Town mayor Bob Welch has spoken of his ‘disappointment’ at the raids and has called on residents to support the police if they knew anything about them.

A West Mercia Police spokesman said: “We are not sure exactly when these offences occurred but it is likely to have been during the hours of darkness on either Friday or Saturday nights. All five homes were unoccupied at the time and the burglars have ransacked them making an untidy search of rooms and pulling out drawers.

“It seems jewellery and cash were the main items targeted although a vase, keys, shoe horn and silver-plated candelabra were also stolen from one of the homes.

“We are anxious to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious which might be connected to these crimes.

“Entry was gained by forcing windows or doors and there would have been considerable noise. Please call Ludlow or Shrewsbury police stations on 0300 333 3000 if you have any information which may assist the police investigation.”

Councillor Welch added: “I’m very disappointed to hear about the burglaries over the weekend. I would encourage anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area over the weekend to call the police.”

House-to-house inquiries have been carried out by police. Information can also be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

By Peter Kitchen