Police are warning Cotswold homeowners following a spate of break-ins and thefts.
Gloucestershire Constabulary is urging residents of Moreton and Chipping Campden to remain vigilant following a series of incidents.
Over recent weeks there have been 15 reported break-ins, including sheds and garage burglaries, and eight reports of thefts from vehicles.
During these incidents, offenders stole a wide variety of items including catalytic converters, number plates, power tools, and a vehicle which was later found abandoned.
One incident saw unknown offenders target a car parked on Station Road in the Blockley area of Moreton, cutting off the catalytic converter sometime overnight between Tuesday, October 18, and Wednesday 19.
In the same area of Moreton, on Greenway Road, offenders stole the front and rear number plates from a car.
The same victims were targeted again the following day and had a car stolen from their driveway.
Police say the vehicle was later found abandoned and enquiries are ongoing.
Meanwhile, in Chipping Campden unknown offenders forced entry to two sheds on Back Lane and search inside them.
It is not yet known if anything was stolen.
Gloucestershire Constabulary has issued advice to residents of the two Cotswold towns.
A spokesperson said: “As the winter months approach and the nights get darker earlier officers from the Cotswolds Neighbourhood Policing team would like to remind residents of the protective measures that can be taken to help ensure homes and vehicles are as safe as possible.
“There are a number of measures that can be taken to help protect your home from burglary with homeowners advised to install a 'WIDE' combination of security devices as well as ensuring that back gates are secure.
A ‘WIDE’ combination includes window locks, indoor lights on timer switches, double door locks or deadbolts and external lights on a sensor.
“Vehicle crime is often opportunistic and officers are asking the public to check that vehicle doors are locked and personal belongings or valuables are removed where possible,” the spokesperson added.
Police are also urging anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or has information on the recent series of incidents to call 111 or complete an online form, available at https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
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