PEOPLE are being urged to lock up their uPVC front doors carefully after a spate of burglaries.

Police say some householders appear to be pulling the handle into the “up” position, but not actually locking the door with the key.

Detectives are now investigating whether a string of burglaries in Southampton are linked.

On Friday, February 14, a home on Burgess Road in Bassett, was broken into through the front door between 12.30pm and 2.40pm. A pair of hooped gold earrings was taken.

The following morning a house n The Parkway, in Bassett, was broken into through the front door. A handbag and laptop were taken.

On Sunday, February 16, between midnight and 6am a home on Glenwood Avenue, in Bassett, was broken into through the front door and a wallet, a holdall bag with a laptop, and a child’s backpack were taken.

Between 1am and 7am a home in Copperfield Road, in Bassett, was also broken into through the front door. A laptop, an iPad, and a handbag containing between £50 and £80 was taken.

Contact Detective Inspector Nield at Bitterne police station on 101 or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously. Minicom users should call 01962 875000.