POLICE are hunting burglars who have targeted homes in a Hampshire community.

Officers are investigating a series of burglaries in the Chandler's Ford area in a two day period which they believe could be linked.

They are urging residents to be on their guard and make sure their homes are secure.

In many cases UVPC doors are being targeted as some people pull the handle into the 'up' position without actually locking the door with the key.

Thieves broke into a home on Calshot Drive taking two handbags and other items including a camera and iPad, between 10.45pm on February 25 and 5.40am the next day.

Then they took a handbag and laptop from a home in Donnington Drive, on the same day between 11pm and 5.15am the next day, then a handbag and wallet were taken from a home in Salcombe Close after breaking in through the front door sometime between 10.30pm and 7am.

Burglars broke into another property in Highclere Way through the front door and took a handbag, wallet and iPad between 10.30pm on February 25 and 6.50am the next day.

Finally, an alarm went off at a home in Donnington Drive and, although it did not appear anyone had got in, the door handle had been tampered with at around 4pm on February 26.

Investigating officer DC Toru Tsuzaki said: “This recent spate of burglaries seems to have exploited vulnerabilities to the front door of homes during the night and suspects have entered to steal items close to the door itself.

“I'd advise the public to be extra vigilant and to lock and secure their front door properly overnight.

“Do not leave keys in the door and remove valuables from sight around windows and doorways. I'd also suggest putting electrical items such as laptops, tablets and phones out of sight when not in use during the night.”

Anyone with information is asked to call DC Tsuzaki at Eastleigh CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.