GLAZEBURY and Croft residents are being urged to be on their guard after the villages were targeted by opportunistic thieves.

There were two incidents recently where villagers were gardening and handbags and laptops were stolen while the front door was left open.

The latest incident happened in Warrington Road, Glazebury, on the afternoon of Friday, July 10.

CSO Steve Dodd said: "It can happen when you're putting grass in the bin at the other end of the house or if you're mowing the lawn or using the strimmer you might not be able to hear someone approach.

"So please ensure you lock all doors behind you if you are working the the garden."