POLICE should prioritise a spate of caravan thefts after 19 were hit at a Ribble Valley park over the past three weeks, says MP Nigel Evans.

Ribble Valley Country and Leisure Park in Paythorne was targeted, with multiple empty static holiday homes broken into.

MORE TOP STORIES:

And police are appealing to caravan owners across the borough to be vigilant following the raids, which have resulted in thousands of pounds’ worth of property being taken.

It is believed thieves forced open doors and window locks, before stealing televisions, laptops, tablets, vacuum cleaners, alcohol and other items totalling more than £2,700. Many of the caravans had damage to their outer shells, including multiple slash marks.

Ribble Valley MP Mr Evans said: “The police need to prioritise these burglaries immediately. Whether the owners are holidaymakers or residents, they are victims.

“This new rash of thefts is a cancer in our midst and must be met with strong force. The thieves must know they will be caught and dealt with harshly.”

Sgt Craig Leech, of Lancashire Police, said: “Since the darker nights have crept in, a number of caravan parks in the Ribble Valley and wider areas of rural Lancashire have been targeted by thieves.

“Many parks are quieter at this time of year, with residents moving out and the caravans being left unoccupied for longer periods.

“We are investigating these as a pattern of burglaries, but urge owners to be vigilant reporting any suspicious activity to the police, taking vehicle registration numbers, as criminals often visit caravan parks in the day time prior to targeting them during the night.

“Owners could also consider checking on their caravans more often through winter months and removing valuable items from view to deter criminals.

“Caravans fitted with alarms will both deter, and if activated, disturb burglars and raise the alarm with occupied neighbouring properties, while caravan park owners may also wish to consider additional security measures such as CCTV and patrols.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101.