RESIDENTS in Bromsgrove are being urged to take basic crime prevention measures following a spate of opportunist burglaries in the town.

The call comes from Bromsgrove police after a series of incidents in which offenders have entered homes through unlocked or open windows and doors and stolen property.

Sgt Jerry Reakes-Williams, of Bromsgrove police, said: "In the last two weeks of August almost half of the house burglaries in this division were the result of home-owners leaving doors and windows open or unlocked while they were out."

He added: "Many areas have seen a reduction in the number of house burglaries recently. We can build on this success."