POLICE are urging householders to be on their guard after a single community suffered five burglaries in just two days.

On January 28 and 29 five properties were entered in Thirsk and thieves stole purses, cash and a money box.

The burglaries took place in Islebeck, Hambleton Place, Sutton Court and two in Ingramgate. Most are believed to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning with the first report received just after midnight and another at around 1.15am.

Police are urging anyone who saw any suspicious people or vehicles in the areas to contact them as soon as possible.

They have also renewed their advice to residents to take as many crime prevention measures as possible.

PC Quita Passmore said: “We’re urging residents to ensure they take as many security precautions as possible, including locking their doors and windows – even when they are at home.

“Around a third of all burglaries reported across North Yorkshire are at properties where a door or window has been left insecure.

“Opportunist and sneak-in thieves will take advantage of any open door or window. Please make their lives as hard as possible by putting as many obstacles as possible in their way.

“And please remember not to leave any tempting valuables on display where they can be seen through windows or easily found.”

Anyone with possible information about the incidents is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

For more crime prevention advice, visit the North Yorkshire Police website.