A SPATE of sneak-in burglaries across has prompted a warning from North Yorkshire Police for people to secure their homes and keep valuables out of sight.

Communities in Selby, Scarborough and Ryedale have been particularly affected, with respective three per cent and 12 per cent rises in domestic burglary between April and the end of September.

A smaller number of break-ins have also occurred in York and Harrogate. Opportunist thieves have in many instances entered insecure homes and stolen cash and personal items which, in many cases, have been visible through the windows.

Detective Chief Inspector Heather Pearson said: “While residents can be assured that we are working around the clock to deter, catch and bring burglary suspects to justice, it is still vital for people to do everything they can to ensure their homes and possessions are as secure as possible.”