A string of burglaries targeting jewellery and watches has left residents on alert across North Yorkshire.
Break-ins have been reported in Harrogate, Selby, and Thirsk, with suspects forcing entry into homes during the late afternoon and early evening between October 17 and November 4.
Inspector Greg Davies of North Yorkshire Police’s neighbourhood policing team said: "We are carrying out a full and thorough investigation into this series of burglaries, and our communities can expect to see increased patrols in the areas targeted.
"While responsibility for these crimes always lie with the offenders, we are encouraging residents to review their security and take as many crime prevention measures as possible.
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"We’re also appealing to anyone who has seen any suspicious people, vehicles, or activity in the Mill Hill Lane area of Harrogate, Hill Top Lane area of Pannal, and the villages of Cliffe near Selby and Cowesby near Thirsk, to get in touch.
"No matter how insignificant you think the information may be, if it looked unusual for your neighbourhood, please trust your instincts and report it."
Police are urging the public to report any information online via the North Yorkshire Police website or by calling 101.
Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 12260217745.
Officers are also reminding residents to review their home security.
They recommend installing motion-sensor CCTV, using accredited burglar alarms with upper-floor sensors, and securing all windows and doors.
Residents are also advised to keep jewellery out of sight, store valuables in a wall or floor-mounted safe, and photograph or mark possessions for insurance purposes.
Police have warned that burglars often target unlocked doors and windows, poorly lit properties, and homes displaying packaging from recent expensive purchases.
Properties that appear empty during school runs, holidays, or evenings out are also at greater risk.
Sheds and garages containing tools that could be used to gain entry, and homes previously burgled without improved security, are also targeted.
Anyone seeing a crime in progress should call 999 immediately.
For non-emergency reports, residents can contact police via the website or by calling 101.
North Yorkshire Police continue to investigate the burglaries and are working to reassure affected communities through increased patrols and support.
The force has made clear that even small pieces of information from the public could prove vital in identifying those responsible and preventing further offences.
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