POLICE are urging homeowners in Shrewsbury to tighten security after a spate of burglaries.

A total of 29 home burglaries and three attempted burglaries have been recorded in Sundorne, Harlescott and Battlefield since April.

Most have occurred overnight while householders were asleep.

In 23 cases, entry was gained through rear doors, windows and conservatories left open or unlocked and items stolen include cash, laptops and mobile phones.

Det Chief Insp Alan Edwards, head of Shropshire CID, said: “Domestic burglaries remain relatively few in Shrewsbury, and indeed, in Shropshire as a whole.

However, there has been a recent increase in the north of Shrewsbury.

“We have a duty to make people aware of what's happening so they can take extra care and make sure they remember to maintain security.”

West Mercia Police had these tips to protect your home

Close and secure all doors and windows when leaving your property.

Close ground floor and accessible windows when retiring at night.

Fit deadlocks to all external doors and fit a security light by the front and rear doors.

Let a neighbour or friend know you’re going on holiday.

Arrange for them to check on your house – collect mail, open/close curtains.

Remember to cancel milk and newspapers.

Use timer switches to turn lights on during the evenings.

See www.westmercia.police.uk for more information.