Residents in Hart are being reminded to ensure they take proper security measures to keep their properties and outbuildings secure following a spate of break-ins.

Over the last month a number of burglaries to sheds, outbuildings and garages have been reported to police.

PC Martin Cole, from the Hart Impact Team, said: “We have seen an increase in reports of these types of burglaries and with the run-up to Christmas we want people to make sure they protect their property.

“Use an appropriate level of security for the value of what is being stored. For example, a low level padlock may not be sufficient for a sit-on lawnmower or motorbike worth thousands of pounds.”

Hampshire Constabulary issues the following crime prevention advice:

• Don’t leave valuable property in a shed which is either unlocked or so run-down that it is no obstacle to a thief.

• Fit decent locks to your shed door. Padlocks used externally should be no less than 6cm wide and made of hardened steel. A closed shackle type is best.

• If you have a garage, don’t be fooled into thinking it is more secure than a shed. Make sure a suitable lock is fitted and a shed alarm or similar is installed. Many up-and-over style garage doors are easily broken into but a padlock with a hasp and staple on the inside is an effective way of improving security.