THIEVES smashed their way into sheds used by residents of a tower block in Southampton.

Police have now launched an investigation into the incident at Shirley Towers.

Residents say that the raiders targeted 20 sheds at the tower block.

Although officers say that the thieves managed to break into four of the lock ups during their crime spree.

One resident says he has been left angry and upset after the thieves broke into his shed and stole his bike.

Ashley Piddington has described the city as “crime-ridden”.

He feels annoyed, angry and upset after thieves with “crowbars” forced their way into his shed on Tuesday night and stole his bike.

The 23-year-old retail worker is all the more frustrated as he uses it to get to work in the city centre.

Describing his customised Black carrera Parva as his “pride and joy”, he complains of having to fork out extra money on bus fair and a longer journey time.

Furthermore, he rode his bike as a form of exercise during lockdown.

Ashley says that around 20 sheds were targeted.

In total two bikes were stolen from his shed which he says he “no longer feels safe to use.

Ashley said: “I am annoyed, angry and upset.

“I want my bike returned so I can get to work.”

A police spokesperson said: “We have received a report of four sheds being broken into at Shirley Towers overnight from Tuesday 13 October and the following morning.

“It has been reported two bicycles were stolen.

“Anyone who saw anything suspicious should call 101, quoting 44200398706.”

Councillor Satvir Kaur, Cabinet Member for Homes and Culture, Southampton City Council, said: “It was sad to hear about the recent vandalism at Shirley Towers, where five sheds have been broken into.

"These sheds belong to and are the responsibility of our tenants. Tenants must ensure their sheds are locked, the main doors are closed properly and they have appropriate contents insurance in place.

“As a council, we have secured the area and advised tenants to report any missing items to the Police. Shirley is a great area and we take instances of criminal activity and anti-social behaviour within all our communities extremely seriously. We will continue to work closely with Neighbourhood Policing and encourage anyone with any further information to contact Hampshire Constabulary to further aid in their investigation.”