BURGLARS are targeting sheds, garages and summer houses, prompting police to issue a number of warnings to residents.

Officers say there have been “a number of” burglaries across the Test Valley region in which the culprits have broken into residential outbuildings.

It comes after a mountain bike was stolen from the garage of a home in the Upton area on Tuesday.

And on Thursday police issued a pair of warnings urging residents to be cautious following further incidents.

A statement on behalf of Hampshire Constabulary read: “We would like to remind you to make sure that your property is fully secure, that belongings are locked away and not visible.

“Please also check the access to your gardens are secure and your sheds and other outbuildings have adequate security.

“If you have witnessed anything that you believe to be suspicious in your area please contact us on 101 and if you believe a burglary is in progress call us on 999.”

In relation to the theft of the mountain bike on Tuesday, officers added: "If you saw anything suspicious, please call 101 quoting 44200062668.

"Alternatively, you can report crime online via the Hampshire Constabulary website."