POLICE have issued a warning following an increase in burglaries in a North Yorkshire town.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said there has been a “notable increase” in the number of burglaries that are occurring across Scarborough.

They said offenders are targeting outbuilding such as garages and sheds, looking for bicycles.

In particular, thieves are targeting high-value bicycles and are either cutting through padlocks or gaining entry to garages and sheds through windows.

The force spokesperson said: “We are encouraging people to secure their outbuildings to make it more difficult for these offenders to gain access, and to consider installing outside lights and CCTV to act as a deterrent.

“If you notice someone loitering around an address, acting suspiciously, or see something that just doesn’t look right, please call and report this to us.

“Use 999 if it is happening at the time, or 101 if it is not ongoing.”

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Anyone with information that could assist in the investigations into these burglaries is urged to email general.enquiries@northyorkshire.police.uk.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800555111.