HOUSEHOLDERS in Newton and Haydock are being warned to be on their guard following a number of incidents involving hook and cane burglaries in St Helens.

Hook and cane burglaries involve offenders fishing through letter boxes with sticks or other implements to hook car keys left near the front door or an open window.

Crime prevention officer for St Helens, Paul Mangnall, said: "The burglar looks for house keys, or car keys, which are left on view on shelves, window ledges and tables in the hall or porch.

"Simply putting keys and valuables out of sight could prevent you becoming a victim and you should ensure they are not left where they can be seen or stolen from the letterbox or through glass doors or windows.

"Consider fitting a letterbox cage, which prevents thieves from putting their hand through the letter box. Also never leave spare keys in a hiding place such as under the doormat or a flowerpot - a thief will always look there first."

Further crime prevention advice can be obtained by calling the crime prevention officer for St Helens on 0151 777 6882.