POLICE are offering security advice following after a series of burglaries across North Yorkshire.

Homes have been targeted in the Hambleton, Malton and York area and police are urging residents to ensure they take adequate security measures.

Two Northallerton men, aged 36 and 37, have been arrested and charged in connection with a break-in at a veterinary surgery in Northallerton on Friday (February 22).

The 36-year-old was also arrested in connection with a burglary at a flat in Bank Head Road, Northallerton on Friday.

In separate incidents, five break-ins have been reported over the last fews days, in Potto near Stokesley, Tockwith, York and Wintringham, near Malton. Mostly cash and jewellery have been stolen, and in one case in York, the burglars failed to gain entry.

A house in Sittenham, York was broken into and power tools stolen over Thursday night (February 21).

Residents are now being urged to take extra measures to increase their own home security.

Crime prevention advice is available from the North Yorkshire Police website: www.northyorkshire.police.uk/homesecurity or via a free mobile app; nyp.mobi

Detective Chief Inspector Heather Pearson said simple actions such as fitting alarms, locking doors and windows at all times and keeping valuables and car keys out of sight could deter opportunistic criminals.

She added: “Jewellery is of particular interest to thieves and we urge people to keep it hidden and locked away where it is difficult to find. Consider investing in a safe if you own large amounts of expensive jewellery.”

Anyone with information should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option one, and speak to the control room, contact Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111 or dial 999 if a crime is in progress.