PEOPLE are being warned after a rise in shed burglaries since the start of the lockdown.

Over the last three weeks the east of Darlington and the North Road area has seen a rise in the number of reported burglaries and attempted burglaries on sheds.

Officers are now asking residents to not only check that their sheds and outbuildings are secure, but also to ensure the security measures they have in place are sufficient.

Darlington Neighbourhood Inspector Chris Knox said: “We have seen a large increase in shed burglaries, particularly around the east of the town and the North Road corridor.

“In most cases the sheds have been locked but the locks have either been smashed off or the door has been removed by its hinges.

“If it is not possible to improve the security, then it is important that people consider whether they can store some of the contents elsewhere.

“That might be keeping expensive tools or bikes in the house for the duration of the lockdown.”

He added: “Obviously with the Coronavirus restrictions in place, people are out in their gardens more and in and out of their sheds and garages.

“It is important that people make sure that no property is left outside in the garden on a night and that everything is locked up. By doing this there is temptation for opportunist thieves.”

Anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour should report it to Durham Constabulary on 101.