RESIDENTS are being urged to be ‘extra vigilant’ after recent garage and shed break-ins in the area.

Police say there have been a number of recent incidents reported in recent weeks.

It comes after burglars targeted a farm in Red Rice on April 4, and on April 16 thieves cut through padlocks to gain access to the shed of a property in Monxton.

A recent message from police stressed that this information is not intended to frighten residents, but to raise awareness and encourage people to stay vigilant.

Officers have also shared advice to help keep people better protected against such crime. Their advice includes:

- Fit an alarm to your garage or shed - most DIY stores stock battery-operated alarms suitable for this purpose.

- Always mark the property you keep in your garage or shed with your postcode - this will help identification if they are stolen and then recovered. Keep a list of property with photographs.

- Register your property on www.immobilise.com.

- Make sure your garage or shed is fitted with a good strong lock, padlock, door hinges or other security device such as a Garage Defender.

- Make sure items inside the garage or shed are secure - large items can be padlocked together or you could sink a post into the floor of the garage and padlock items to the post.

- Always remember to lock your garage or shed after use.

- Do not store large quantities of valuables in your garage and shed.

- Keep property and fencing in good repair and ensure that foliage and trees are kept trimmed.

- Check with your insurance company that you are covered for items stored in your garage or shed.

Residents are urged to report suspicious activity to the police on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, you can report on by going to www.hampshire.police.uk