DARWEN police have said hunting down burglars has become their top priority after a sharp spike in reported break-ins.

Officers have been carrying out regular patrols to put off would-be offenders and catch people in the act.

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This week PC Andy Crow patrolled known burglary hotspots and visited ‘at risk’ businesses and homes as he tried to prevent residents suffering ‘serious’ financial loss.

The crackdown comes after nearly 70 burglaries were recorded since the beginning of June in the town, which amounts to around one incident every other night.

Most break-ins have occurred at small businesses such as Curry Palace, in Railway Road, and Card Factory, in Market Street, where cash and valuables have been taken.

During the patrol PC Crow said that officers were determined to catch the thieves and put an end to a ‘worrying’ trend.

He said: “When we see a trend like this it is important we get out there and keep an eye out for the culprits.

“We will be doing this until we catch those responsible.

“I have a look at our system before I go out and note down any spots that seem to be being targeted so that hopefully, we can catch someone at it.

“It’s happening around the town centre and we want to get this person.”

At Curry Palace earlier this month, around £2,000 was stolen along with a Sat-Nav and a laptop, which ended up dumped in an alleyway.

Sgt Dave Sherrington, of Darwen neighbourhood police, said he was advising businesses not to leave cash in tills overnight.

He was also asking residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour.

He said: “This spate of late night burglaries is a real cause for concern and we are out in the evenings looking for perpetrators.

“I would strongly advice that businesses do not leave any cash in premises overnight, not even a small float of £30.

“This is happening a lot in small businesses and it’s causing them serious financial damage in some cases.

“I want to also suggest that businesses put up a sign in windows saying that no cash is kept overnight in the premises.”

Other businesses which have been hit are Bridge Cafe and the Age UK charity shop, which police said had been burgled twice in a month.

Sgt Sherrington added: “Anything businesses can do to help us prevent this happening would be a huge help.”

Anyone with information about break-ins in the town should contact the police on 101.

People can also contact Crimestoppers, free and anonymously, on 0800 555111.