POLICE have warned residents to keep doors and windows in their homes secure in a bid to reduce burglaries.

Sergeant Jon Cisco has asked people to make sure windows and doors are closed when leaving the house to avoid "preventative burglaries".

He said: "It's now the start of the run up to Christmas and people will start buying gifts for family and friends.

"We want to make sure residents are keeping their houses secure.

"This includes keeping windows and doors shut and keeping valuable items, such as car keys, out of sight so burglars can't see them.

"By doing these simple actions lots of burglaries can be prevented.

"Anyone with any concerns or want more advice should call 101 and speak to their police neighbourhood team."