Spate of burglaries reported across Torbay neighbourhoods

Residents are being urged to remain vigilant following a recent spate of burglaries targeting homes across Torbay.

Police say several dwelling burglaries have been reported in recent weeks in Paignton, Brixham, Churston and Galmpton.

Offenders are believed to have targeted properties in quieter areas, particularly homes which appear unoccupied or where elderly residents live.

Officers are now advising people to take extra precautions to secure their homes and to check in on vulnerable neighbours.

Advice from police includes ensuring doors and windows are closed and locked even when leaving the house for only a short time, and double-locking doors where possible.

Residents are also urged to keep valuables out of sight and avoid leaving handbags, keys or other items close to letterboxes or cat flaps, where they could be hooked through an opening.

Car documents and identification should not be left in obvious places such as kitchens or hallways, police added.

Other measures include closing curtains and leaving lights on in the evening, using timer devices to automatically switch on lights or a radio if the home will be empty, and setting burglar alarms.

People are also encouraged to lock side gates, sheds and garages, and secure bicycles inside a locked building using a ground anchor or similar robust fitting.

Officers are asking neighbours to look out for elderly residents in particular.

Anyone who sees suspicious activity should call police on 999 in an emergency or report concerns online.