POLICE are urging residents in Newton-le-Willows to make sure their homes and vehicles are secure following a spate of burglaries in the area.

Since December, there has been a marked increase in burglaries around the Market Street area of Earlestown, on and near Newton's Trees estate and in streets near to Ashton Road and Newton High Street. Most have happened between dusk and 10pm, with offenders forcing their way into properties through back doors and windows. Police have now launched Operation Backyard and advise residents to make sure their homes appear occupied.

Inspector Kevin Wellens, said: "We are committed to reducing crime and would like to reassure the public that all possible steps are being taken to address this problem."

Anyone with information should contact St Helens Incident Management Unit (IMU) on 0151 777 6969 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.