POLICE are asking residents in Marlborough, Pewsey and the surrounding areas to be vigilant following a series of high value burglaries.

As the Gazette reported last week, police have been dealing with around 30 incidents including thefts of cash, jewellery, pedal cycles, garden machinery and generators.

Sergeant Clare Wallace of the Marlborough and Pewsey Neighbourhood Policing Teams said: "We are highlighting these incidents not only to appeal for information but to raise awareness of the importance of crime prevention.

“The burglaries have been happening in residential properties, outbuildings and garages. I am advising residents to take measures to secure their property and to call us straight away on 999 if they see a crime in progress or anything suspicious."

Wiltshire Police has also issued this home security advice:
• Keep front and back doors locked even when you are in the house to prevent people walking in without you knowing and double check they are locked at night
• Fit doors with mortice locks
• All windows should be fitted with locks except those designated as fire escapes
• Keep valuable items out of view and mark them with a property marking system
• Never leave a spare key in a plant pot or letter box, a thief will know where to look
• Make sure you have good lighting around your property and consider investing in a burglar alarm
• Never keep pin numbers with credit or debit cards
• Keep car keys out of sight
• Lock tools and ladders away so thieves can’t use them to break in
• Make sure you have up to date contents insurance
• If you see anyone acting suspiciously take down any vehicle registration numbers and call us on 999

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt Wallace at Marlborough Police Station on 101.