Police have issued a warning to residents following a spike in outbuilding burglaries in South Warwickshire last year. 

Alcester Police said the number of outbuilding burglaries spiked between September and October 2023, which was above the forecasted number in South Warwickshire for rural locations. 

As we approach the autumn and winter months, Alcester Police have warned residents that the offences could re-emerge as a trend this year. 

Officers are now trying to help raise awareness of the crime in an attempt to "prevent and disrupt this as a future emerging trend". 

In a post on Facebook, Alcester Police said: "It has been noted that outbuilding burglaries spiked in September to October 2023 above forecasted volumes in South Warwickshire rural locations. It is a realistic possibility that offences could re-emerge as a trend in the Autumn and Winter months.

"Sheds and outbuildings were targeted largely for power tools including gardening equipment, tools and pedal cycles. Damage was frequently only reported in garage offences with unsuccessful entry or no items stolen."

Police have also issued advice to residents including making sure gates, fences and walls are in good condition, keeping all gates locked, fitting good quality padlocks to the doors, securing hinges and investing in an alarm. 

For more information please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team.