Residents urge vigilance after burglaries

"BE ON your guard."

That's the message from a group of residents on Daubney Street, Cleethorpes, after their sheds and back gardens were broken into.

Power tools, machinery and bikes have been stolen and police are warning people to remain vigilant.

Amanda Rudland, a committee member of Daubney Street Neighbourhood Watch group, was heartbroken to discover her husband's electric bike, worth £500, was stolen earlier this month.

She said it happened in the early hours of the morning and even her dog was not disturbed.

She said: "More than anything it is heartbreaking that someone has forced their way onto my property and helped themselves to my possession.

"Whoever stole the bike also caused damage to the shed and gate. I have reported it to the police but the bike has not been found yet."

Amanda is not the only victim. Last week Inga Anderson, of Daubney Street, reported her bike had been stolen, too.

She said: "I don't have a shed, but my bike was in the back garden.

"Someone has managed to break through locked gates and gain access.

"My bike was worth about £100 and I had recently had it repaired. This is very upsetting."

The ladies, together with other Neighbourhood Watch members and residents are now speaking out to make others aware.

Amanda said: "We are warning other people to be on guard and to notify police if they see any suspicious behaviour.

"What is more alarming is that thieves are gaining access through locked metal gates.

"Since my bike was stolen I have had a representative from Safer Homes Service visit me and help out. They have given me two sensor alarms for my house and one for my shed."

North East Lincolnshire Councillor Hazel Chase, portfolio holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: "Anyone who has been a victim of burglary should get in touch with the Safer Homes Service.

"They will book an appointment with you and come out. Anyone who turns up at your door trying to sell you home safety equipment, but has not made an appointment, ignore them and don't let them in.

"It is not acceptable for someone to feel they can access another person's property and take their possessions.

"I want everyone to be aware this is happening."

A spokesman from Humberside Police said they are aware of the burglaries reported, but added: "We would ask residents to be vigilant and to report suspicious activity by calling 101."