RESIDENTS across Warrington are being warned of a rise in car and key burglaries.

Cheshire Police is urging residents to be vigilant following an increase in burglary incidents involving the theft of vehicles.

Over recent weeks, officers have seen an increase in the number of incidents where the offenders have been forcibly gaining entry into residential properties.

They have then gone on to search the properties for any car keys inside, before proceeding to steal the vehicles parked outside.

Detectives have been conducting enquiries into these incidents, and several vehicles have already been recovered and arrests made in connection to these thefts.

Patrols are being stepped up in the local area to deter thieves and prevent further burglaries from occurring.

PC John Teasdale said: “We are aware of an increase in reports of thefts of keys and cars across Warrington, and we are continuing to do everything in our power to locate those responsible and bring them to justice.

“I know that these incidents will cause some concern in the local area, but we will use all the tools at our disposal to crackdown on these types of crime.

“We will always take robust action against identified suspects when a burglary in Warrington is committed.

“While we continue with our enquiries, I would urge residents to ensure that they review security measures and ensure that their vehicles are properly secured, in order to make it even more difficult for any offenders to strike.

“Selecta DNA kits have also to be proven extremely useful in getting criminals off our streets and recovering stolen property.

”Using it in this way to target people intending to commit burglary or robbery sends a clear message that Cheshire is a hostile environment for anyone who comes here to commit crime.”

Homeowners are advised to think about installing CCTV or video doorbells outside homes and to ensure that no valuables are left inside vehicles or are in sight.

Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors and on garages as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark.

Consider an accredited burglar alarm system with audible alarm boxes mounted high at the front and rear of your home. Two visible audible alarm boxes are better than one.

Anyone with any information or footage regarding burglaries in Warrington is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or give the details via the Cheshire Police website.

Information can also be reported to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting the Crimestoppers website.