HOMEOWNERS have been warned to be vigilant ahead of Christmas following a spate of burglaries in Hampshire.

Police have issued an appeal for information after properties in the Catisfield and Highlands area of Fareham were targeted by burglars.

Cash, jewellery and electrical items were stolen from three houses in the Appleton Road, Cheerygarth Road and Woodbourne Road areas of Catisfield.

Three properties were entered in Balmoral Road, Burnham Wood and Nicholas Crescent in the Highlands area four days later and jewellery and cash were among the items taken.

Investigating officer PC Tara Magnus, of the Fareham and Gosport Priority Crime 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.

“In the majority of these cases ladies jewellery has been taken. Please ensure you have the appropriate level of security for the value of your items. “We would also appeal to householders to ensure their properties are secure, including side or rear entrances.

“If you are planning on being away from your address for some time consider using a timer switch or leaving some lighting on within the address.

“If you have witnessed any unusual activity or suspicious persons or vehicles in these areas during those dates please contact me.” Police say people can register expensive items on immobilise.com for free to help officers get property back to you if it is stolen and later recovered.

If anyone has any information about the burglaries, which took place on November 27 and December 1, they should contact the Fareham and Gosport Priority Crime Team on 02392 899824 or call the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555111.