MORE police officers will be patrolling streets across Warrington over the Easter holidays.

It comes amid a crime wave of car and key burglaries, with detectives urging residents to remain cautious.

Yesterday, Thursday, Cheshire Police says it received five reports of burglaries and car thefts in the town, predominantly in the Westbrook, Bruche and Fearnhead areas.

According to the reports, the offenders have been gaining access to the properties via insecure windows and doors to steal car keys, as well as forcibly gaining access into vehicles.

The force says enquiries in relation to the incidents are ongoing, while patrols have been stepped up across the town to help deter would-be thieves.

DS Alex Reeves said: “We are committed to doing everything in our power to locate those responsible.

“Additional patrols will be in place across the town over the Easter bank holiday weekend to help deter thieves and prevent further burglaries from occurring.

“While we continue with our enquiries, I would urge residents to ensure that they review security measures and ensure that their vehicles are properly secured in order to make it even more difficult for any offenders to strike.”

Homeowners are urged to think about installing CCTV or video doorbells and to securely put away any valuables left inside vehicles, ensuring they are hidden out of sight.

Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors and on garages as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark.

Consider an accredited burglar alarm system with audible alarm boxes mounted high at the front and rear of your home. Two visible audible alarm boxes are better than one.

Anyone who has information in relation to the incidents is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 1786689, or visit cheshire.police.uk/tell-us

Information can also be reported to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting the Crimestoppers website.