Rise in shed crime causes police to speak out

The incidents happened on Glenfield Road, Queens Walk, Thetford Road, and Kenilworth Road where doors and windows were broken or forced into.

Spelthorne Neighbourhood Sergeant Rebecca Kempster, said: "We had a few offences over the weekend but it is hard to pinpoint exactly when it happens, as some people don't check their sheds often. We would ask for people to secure their belongings and remain vigilant."

Police said the summer is traditional time for shed break-ins due to people being away, and the rise in summer hobbies.

They are calling on people to make their doors and windows secure, to fit alarms or motion sensor lights, and fix padlock to equipment such as lawnmowers.

Mrs Kempster said: "Thieves are after lawnmowers, strimmers, power tools, bicycles, golf clubs, fishing tackle or whatever can be carried away and has a ready cash value.

"Sheds are often an easy target as they are usually basically insecure and often away from the house. We tend to forget just how many valuable items are stored there. Why not carry out a security check on your shed?

"And remember to ask your neighbours to keep their eye on your shed as well as the house and do the same for them in return and when you have made your garden shed, garage or any outbuildings more secure, remember to lock things away every time as it only takes a minute to pick something up and walk off."