POLICE are reminding people to make sure their homes are securely locked following a series of opportunistic raids.

The advice cokes in the wake of number of burglaries and thefts from properties near to the A684 in North Yorkshire.

They happened in the late afternoon or early evenings between November 9 and 19 from homes in Burneston, Patrick Brompton and Spennithorne.

The thieves stole jewellery including gold and pearl bracelets, gold and silver rings, wedding bands and gold, pearl and silver necklaces. The burglars also took household items such as silver fruit stands, a crystal claret jug, silver candlesticks and a silver pineapple.

Detective Constable Lee Allenby said: “If you have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the Bedale or Leyburn areas, close to the A684 in the last few weeks I urge you to come forward and contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away.

“These burglaries appear to have been opportunistic in nature, with the thieves using insecure doors or windows to get into the homes.

“I ask people to make sure that they securely lock doors and windows when they leave their homes, even for a short time.”

Anyone with information should contact Northallerton CID on 101, press option two and ask for Lee Allenby.

Alternatively information can be emailed to lee.allenby@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.