Police alert after Shropshire hit by two-week spate of burglaries

Police believe the surge could be because of the darker nights.

The warning follows a number of burglaries in the north of the county. Extra police patrols have now been put in place in the area.

Shropshire's senior Detective Inspector Pete Davies said: "There has been a recent spate of incidents in the Oswestry and Ellesmere areas and it is important people are aware of this.

"If people are informed about a burglary near their own home, they are more likely to be security conscious and to tighten up on basic protective measures."

Mr Davies urged people to be on their guard and security conscious.

"Even though only a small percentage of homes are ever broken into, autumn's longer days of darkness are a time when traditionally there is an increased number of these crimes," he said.

"Most house break-ins are opportunistic where offenders are on the look-out for easy pickings. A significant percentage of burglaries occur because people leave their homes insecure – either unlocked doors or insecure windows.

"Everyone needs to remain security conscious, especially at this time of year, to prevent their homes from becoming an easy target".

During the last two weeks of September, homes were burgled in Welshampton, Tetchill, Larch Close and The Trench in Ellesmere as well as houses in Beatrice Street, Elson Road, Hampton Fields and Hampton Rise in Oswestry.

Mr Davies said home owners should keep a visible light on when out at night as it gave the impression someone was in, use timer switches to turn lights on while out, keep front and back doors locked even while at home, close ground floor and vulnerable windows at night, make sure gates are well secured and invest in external lighting.

Since April 1 the number of reported burglaries in Shropshire has fallen by more than 34 per cent compared with the same six months last year – from 381 down to 250. The number of solved burglaries is also up by 24 per cent.

Inspector Davies added: "Fortunately, the overall number of burglaries throughout Shropshire is relatively low.

"Although the reduction in incidents is encouraging, the number of burglaries is still far too high. With the public's help, we are determined to make further improvements by making life for burglars as difficult as possible."

Anyone who sees any suspicious activity should call the police on 101 – or call 999 if you suspect a crime is in progress.