COMMUNITY safety chiefs are urging householders to get "sheducated" this summer – and beat the garden thieves.

The Safer Hambleton Community Safety Hub have re-issued a leaflet giving tips on how to weed out thieves and prevent thefts from sheds and gardens.

Co-ordinator Gina Allen said: “Summer brings with it an increase in the number of burglaries and thefts from sheds, garages and gardens.

“Unlocked doors as well as unattended items for the garden and home give thieves an easy opportunity to walk in and take anything left lying around.

"Gardens need attending, children want bikes and toys out and people find themselves in and out of the shed or garage on a regular basis – unfortunately this often leads to a number of crimes where tools or other items maybe left lying about.

"They are easy pickings.”