HOT weather prompted a spate of burglaries.

Wiltshire Police has urged homeowners to make sure they secure their homes against thieves.

The force said they had three incidents reported over the past week.

The first occurred on Monday, June 25, at a property on Highworth Road. At some point overnight a purse, wallet and cash were taken.

A second burglary took place the same day just before 8.30 pm in Cricklade Road. A man wearing a grey hoodie had been seen in the garden. Food was taken.

Then, at around 5am on Tuesday, June 26, a man was seen in the back garden of a house in Ermin Street. He was described as around 5’ 7” with short dark hair and was wearing black shorts and top. When challenged he said he was looking for a football and then jumped back over the fence. No entry was made to the property and nothing stolen.

Insp Andy Bridge said: “In this hot weather we all have windows and doors open and we aren’t saying that residents should have to suffer the heat when in their homes.

“We just advise that if you are in your garden make sure that windows and doors at the front of the house are secure and vice versa. If you go out even for a short time make sure that they are all closed and secure as it takes a thief minutes to access your home through an open window and they will make the most of this opportunity.

“Also if you see anyone acting suspiciously please call us.”

Anyone withy information about the burglaries should call Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.