Warning follows spate of burglaries

9:18am Wednesday 11th April 2007

HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned by police after 22 burglaries in about six weeks in and around Bromsgrove district.

Since the end of February there have been more than 20 burglaries in Wythall, Barnt Green and surrounding areas in which homes, outbuildings and sheds have been broken into.

A bright orange car has been seen in the location of some of the burglaries and police are appealing to residents to look out for this vehicle.

Sergeant Tim Harper, of Wythall Police, said: "There have been 22 burglaries in the last six weeks or so, and while we cannot confirm they are all linked, there are similarities between them.

"The items which are being taken are all high value, easily portable goods such as flat screen televisions, laptop computers, and jewellery, as well as cash.

"Police are appealing for people to be alert and contact police if they see the occupants of a bright orange car acting suspiciously or if they see anything else which looks out of place. Rural areas tend to be quite close-knit communities where most people know each other, so strange people or vehicles may draw attention."

Bromsgrove Police's crime reduction officer PC Stan Baker said: "There are many common sense precautions people can take to protect their property, such as always making sure doors and windows are locked, and setting the alarm if there is one.

"Timer devices which switch on lamps and radios can be brought from DIY stores and are a worthwhile investment because they make it appear as if someone is at home.

"Radios should be tuned to talk stations, and lamps set to come on at dusk.

"We would recommend people join Neighbourhood Watch if there is a group in their area, or consider starting up a group, and we are asking people to generally be neighbourly and keep an eye on each other's homes."

Anyone with information should contact police on 08457 444888 or ring Crimestoppe