A huge number of items have been stolen from Thornbury houses after three burglaries in the space of the week.

In each case the rear patio door was forced to gain entry.

Two were carried out in Swallow Park between 6.25pm and 7.40pm on Thursday, November 29.

Thieves stole items including a microwave, golf clubs, a games console and games, jewellery, a hockey stick and a collection of 50 pence pieces from one address.

Nothing appears to have been taken from the other house.

On Wednesday, December 5 a house in Millfield was broken into.

Between 2.30pm and 6.30pm thieves stole cash, jewellery and watches.

Police have carried out house-to-house and forensic enquiries.

A Neighbourhood Watch alert has been issued and the householders have been given home security advice.

Anyone with any information which could help police enquiries should get in touch through avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101 quoting reference 5218265440 (Swallow Park) or 5218269690 (Millfield).

Alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. T

Police home security tips include:

• Locking up and setting the alarm, if you have one, at night as well as when you go out

• Making sure your door is locked by turning the key – some 'paddle and stub'-handled doors might seem to be locked by lifting the handle, but can still be opened from outside

• Keeping windows and doors secure if you're not in the same room

• Fitting a letterbox cage

• Hiding your handbag or wallet, keys and other portable valuables safely out of sight

• keeping tools locked up in a secure shed or garage

• Making sure garden furniture and wheelie bins can’t be moved to gain access to upstairs windows

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around a neighbour’s property, call the police straight away. It’s 999 if a crime is in progress, otherwise ring 101.