NIGHT-TIME thieves are targeting homes in Woodrow, Greenlands and Lodge Park.

Police are warning residents in these areas to be especially vigilant following a spate of break-ins since the beginning of this month, which have been happening between 2-5am.

Thieves have been getting into homes through open windows and unlocked doors and taking items including jewellery, watches and wallets.

Crime risk manager Pc Eddie Mills said: "As the weather gets warmer, more people tend to go to sleep leaving windows open and unlocked. This provides an ideal opportunity for burglars to enter without being seen or heard."

He said doors should never be left unlocked during the night or when the house is unattended.

"There is a lot people can do to reduce the risk of their home being targeted by a criminal.

''This includes increasing the chance of them being seen by using dusk-to-dawn lighting, locking the garden gate so they can't get to the back of the house, which is often particularly vulnerable, or by installing and using a burglar alarm," said Pc Mills.

Sgt Gerry McKenna said: "We want people to be aware these burglaries have been happening and we urge them to be vigilant and pay special attention to the security of their homes.

"If anyone sees anything suspicious or hears a noise, we would ask them not to dismiss it but report it."

He urged residents to keep their eyes on neighbouring properties.

Anyone who sees anything suspicious or would like more information about crime risk management can call the police on 08457 444 888.