POLICE are warning people to lock up garden tools after a burglar tried to smash open the door of a house with a spade.

He gave up and ran off when a neighbour in Acorn Bank Close, Crewe, spotted him and raised the alarm.

Detective Sergeant Pete Sweeney said: 'Burglars will use all types of garden tools if they think they can force a door or window with them.

'In this case the spade was taken from the garden shed, but in warm weather people often leave tools lying around. We urge everyone to lock them away as securely as possible.'

He added: 'This also illustrates the value of neighbours keeping an eye open for anything suspicious.' The would-be burglar is aged about 30, slim to medium build and bald. The incident happened on Tuesday last week at 1.40pm and after being disturbed he made off towards the railway line.

If you can help, call the Cheshire Police information line, 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers on anonymously on 0800 555 111.