POLICE are urging people living in Oswaldtwistle to lock up their garages and sheds following a spate of break-ins in the area.

Burglars are getting easy access to expensive items which should be locked up in garages and sheds, says DS Mark Rothwell of Accrington CID.

He said: "Burglaries in Oswaldtwistle and Stanhill have shot up recently.

"Often people forget to lock their garages or sheds and valuable things are kept in these places. Thieves will steal at every opportunity and we need to make sure they do not get these chances.

"Lawnmowers, strimmers, tools, bikes -- everything that is worth something and can be moved easily has been stolen recently."

He added: "Burglaries can be very distressing and annoying. These burglaries can be easily avoided.

"Every garage or shed should be secured with a strong padlock."