RUDHEATH and Witton PC Rob Astbury is warning residents to remain alert after a series of suspicious incidents in the area.

The Northwich Community Action Team officer said homeowners should ensure they keep windows and doors locked and be extra vigilant when answering the door following several reports of a man acting strangely in gardens and near to homes at about 5am.

He added: "One involves a man entering a home in Valley View. He claimed the woman resident had left her keys in the front door, however the resident believes the man entered through the back door."

The man was described as white with blond hair and a fresh complexion, of slight build, aged between 18 and 25 and about 5ft 11in. He was wearing a pink - or red - and white hooded jacket.

PC Astbury added: "In another incident, in Malpas Road, a man was disturbed as the occupant believed he was trying to break a window. When challenged, he claimed he was the milkman.

"He is described as being in his early 20s, white, wearing a black woollen hat and light coloured Parka."

Anyone with any information should email northwich.cat@cheshirepnn.police.uk or call PC Astbury on 0845 458 6392.

To report crime anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.