POLICE are urging residents to keep their homes safe after two burglaries at “insecure” properties.

The first happened at 3am yesterday (Tuesday, August 18) when a man entered a house on York Road, Birtley through an insecure door and stole a laptop, DVD player and cash.

The second followed just half an hour later when two men entered a house on Tamerton Drive, Birtley – again through an insecure door. They stole a laptop, mobile phone, wallet, MP3 player and clothes.

Enquiries into both burglaries are continuing and police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Neighbourhood Inspector Michael Robson said: “We also remind residents to take steps to help us stop burglars and opportunist thieves – those who scour streets and neighbourhoods looking for doors and windows that have been left unlocked or open.

“They see this type of situation as easy pickings and the chance to commit a quick and easy crime. They can be in and out of your house in minutes.

“Take some time to get in the routine of locking windows and doors, even if you are in the house, and help us stop burglars and thieves operating in the area.”

Anyone with information on either of the burglaries is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101.