Police are warning homeowners in Chester to keep their homes secure in the warm weather following a spate of burglaries in Great Boughton last night (Thursday).

A number of homes were targeted in the area overnight where thieves were able to easily access properties and steal items, said Inspector Brian Green from Chester Outer Neighbourhood Policing Unit, who emphasised that the warm weather shouldn't encourage people to leave their windows and doors open during the night.

He said: “Due to the warm weather there is an inclination to leave windows open at night. To prevent your house becoming a target ensure that you close and lock all doors and windows when sleeping at night or leaving your house unattended, it may also be a good idea to leave a light on or use a timer to prevent your house from being left in darkness at night”.

Inspector Green also advised keeping unattended keys and valuables out of sight to avoid giving thieves any opportunities.

“Specialist Officers are currently following up various lines of enquiry to identify and apprehend those persons responsible for the crimes in Great Boughton last night but to continue this work, we need information from YOU as members of the public about people committing this sort of crime," he added.

"You may see an increased police presence in your area; this is to provide reassurance and visibility and act as a deterrent to those committing these crimes”.

“Although it’s not always possible to act quickly on any one piece of information, much work goes on behind the scenes to ensure evidence is gathered that will convict criminals of these offences. Every piece of information, no matter how small, helps us to help you”.

If you have any information relating to these, or any unrelated offences, it can be passed on in confidence by calling 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.