Christmas presents have been snatched in a series of burglaries across the Ellesmere Port area.

Thieves also stole sentimental jewellery from some of their victims.

Police are reminding people to keep their homes well lit to deter offenders over the festive period.

There were 10 reported burglaries across Ellesmere Port, Hooton, Neston and Willaston in the space of two weeks.

A man in his 60s was able to ‘send packing’ three balaclava-clad invaders who tried to force their way into his house.

Ellesmere Port LPU detective sergeant Graeme Carvell said: “We have noticed offenders targeting houses during the evening when they are left unoccupied and with no lights switched on.

“Residents can help prevent burglars ruining their Christmas by ensuring their homes are well-lit when it is dark outside.

“By following simple yet secure and effective steps it can play a big part in reducing their chances of falling victim to thieves.

“We have also increased patrols in the area and officers are conducting detailed investigations to identify and arrest those responsible.”

Three thieves tried to break into the address in Rivacre Brow at about 8.30pm on December 14.

Its occupant had a ‘verbal altercation’ with them and they fled the scene.

DS Rob Grantham said: “In this case the occupant was able to send them packing, but we had one instance where they had targeted an elderly lady and stole items from her address.

“While we are making a number of enquiries into those responsible, we are advising residents to look out for their neighbours and report any suspicious activity.

“If you know a house is empty or going to be empty over the Christmas holidays, keep an eye on it and report any suspicious activity to police.”

The other burglaries took place between November 29 and December 12.

An elderly lady’s home in Heather Close and an unoccupied house in Parkfield Drive were broken into.

The thieves struck at addresses in Benty Heath Lane, Briardale Road and Meadow Lane in Willaston.

Homes in Burton Road and Neston Road in Neston as well as Vernon Avenue in Hooton have also been targeted.

Anyone with information on the Rivacre Brow burglary should contact DS Rob Grantham on 101 quoting incident number 958 of December 14.

Those who may have witnessed the offences, noticed any suspicious behaviour or has any information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101.

Police tips and advice on how to prevent burglaries include:

• The majority of houses which are burgled tend to not have a burglar alarm fitted, invest in one and make sure you use it.

• Make sure that all windows are closed and locked or, at the very least, use the security measures on modern windows, which allow them to let some air in but still be locked.

• All external doors should be secured at all times, even when you are at home.

• Keep desirable items out of view to passers-by - valuables should not be visible from windows and doors in your home.

• The same applies to valuable items stored away in garages or sheds - ensure that garages and sheds are locked with strong padlocks and, ideally, fitted with an alarm.

• Consider buying timer switches to turn on table lamps, standard lamps and radios around the home as it gets dark to make it look as if someone is at home.

• Residents are also being urged to consider installing outside lights – dusk till dawn lights with a low wattage bulb will give a constant light when needed. They switch on as it gets dark and turn off when it gets lighter.