POLICE are urging people to be vigilant following an increase in the number of domestic burglaries in Cheshire in which gold seems to have been targeted.

Det Chf Insp Karen Jaundrill said: “There has been a rise in burglaries in which family gold seems to have been targeted in Cheshire in recent months.

“We believe those responsible are highly organised and are possibly travelling into the county from further afield to target properties they believe are likely to contain gold.

“It is therefore crucial that the police, its partners and residents work together to make life as difficult as possible for the criminals.”

There are a number of steps you can take to help protect your valuable jewellery.

Make sure all your windows and doors and kept locked, especially when you are out. Ensure your home looks ‘lived in′, even if you are out. Consider using timer switches for lights to give the impression that someone is at home.

Keep jewellery in a safe and secure place when it is not being worn − thieves have been known to look everywhere in homes for valuable items. Ensure your jewellery is insured.

Keep good records of all the jewellery you own − make a list and include photographs. If your jewellery is stolen this will make it much easier for it to be identified as yours should it be recovered. Consider installing a safe if your jewellery is particularly valuable. Ensure it is securely fitted to a permanent structure.

Anyone with any information about burglaries in which gold seems to have been targeted is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.