POLICE are warning homeowners to secure their houses and outbuildings after a sudden spate of burglaries in the same area.

There were ten raids in the Tang Hall, Osbaldwick and Heworth areas of York in the space of one week.

In nine out of the ten incidents, entry was gained through insecure doors, windows or garages.

Stolen property included laptops, games consoles, smartphones and tablets, bottles of whiskey and bicycles.

Extensive enquiries are underway into the raids and crime prevention information is also being distributed via social media and display screens in student accommodation.