A SECURITY operation to combat shed break-ins in Latchford at the end of October has been hailed as a 'success' by one of the area's police community support officers (PCSOs).

Residents had security devices installed in a bid to combat the rise of shed break-ins, with shed alarms and timer switches fitted at houses across Shelley Grove and the surrounding areas by Warrington Borough Council.

Improved lighting and fencing have also been earmarked for the future to ensure the area becomes as safe as possible.

Steve Parr - a Latchford PCSO since 2007 - confirmed the measures taken to tackle the criminals went just as planned.

"After the security measures, there was a stop to the break-ins and so it was a success," he said.

"It is great, as it makes the area safer for everyone, especially in the run-up to Christmas as it gives residents one less thing to worry about."

The officer praised residents for their help throughout the operation and was quick to calm fears that the issue was bigger than initially thought.

"The information regarding the security measures spread quickly and people started to think that the problem was all over Warrington South but it was actually just the specific area where the security devices were installed," he added.