OFFICERS investigating break-ins at homes in Ramsbury and Aldbourne believe the same jewel thief or thieves were involved.

PC Mike Barrett, who is investigating the burglaries, said the mode of entry was the same in each case.

The thieves forced side or rear windows to gain access to two homes in Crowood Lane and one in Ashley Piece, in Ramsbury, and to one property in Down Road in Aldbourne.

PC Barrett, the community beat officer for Ramsbury, said: "We believe the four break-ins are linked because in each case they used the same modus operandi.

"They forced side windows with some sort of implement and after getting into the homes they selected expensive items of jewellery from each place.

"Some expensive items of electrical equipment were ignored by the offenders."

The break-ins were all reported on Thursday March 18 between 10.20am and 8.30pm.

In total jewellery amounting to well over £3,000 was stolen.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who saw strangers or suspicious vehicles in the streets where the homes were burgled.

Acting Sgt Mark Freeman said it is likely the offences all occurred within a short space of time in the evening.

Any information about the offences should be given to PC Barrett or Sgt Freeman at Marlborough police station on (01672) 512311.