Detectives in York are appealing for residents to be vigilant after a number of recent burglaries.

Homes have been targeted in Copmanthorpe, Poppleton and Haxby in recent months and officers are reminding people of the importance of reporting suspicious behaviour in their area.

In August, September and October there were 24 burglaries reported in those areas compared with seven in the three months before.

Officers have been delivering crime prevention leaflets to residents urging them to report suspicious behaviour and review their home security.

At this time of year criminals know that homes will be stocked up with Christmas presents, so it is especially important to be on your guard.

Temporary Detective Sergeant Matt Dodson, of York CID, said: “Over recent months York has seen a rise in house burglaries in the surrounding villages of Haxby, Poppleton and Copmanthorpe.

“These are close knit communities and anyone or any vehicle acting suspiciously will tend to stand out.

“Residents are asked to remain vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious behaviour and any suspicious people or vehicles.

“Remember to do everything they can to secure your property even when at home. This includes ensuring your doors remain locked and only keep windows open in those rooms which you are using.”
If you would like to report any suspicious behaviour in your area, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 – select option 1 – and pass information to the Force Control Room.

If you prefer not to give your name, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.