Police urge residents to be vigilant

Outdoor Security is usually forgotten as many householders focus on securing their homes.

To help you make sure your garden is safe and your shed is secure try and protect vulnerable areas such as windows, fences, boundary walls and drainpipes and use well positioned external lighting.

Keep your shed in good condition and fit a closed shackle padlock to the door. Fit meshes or grilles to the windows and invest in an alarm. Make sure large items such as bicycles are chained together as it is much more difficult for a thief to carry away a lot of large items. Visibly mark the contents in the shed. Take notes of serial numbers and photograph expensive equipment.

If you notice any suspicious activity in your local area please report it immediately to police on the 101 number.