SUMMER has finally arrived, if only for a short period, but the sun's long-awaited appearance has forced police to issue a warning about hot-fingered thieves.

Police say many people are leaving their homes at risk from criminals by leaving windows and doors open.

PC John Flowers, of Bury's operational police unit, said: "Residents are taking to their back gardens to soak up the sun or enjoy a barbecue.

"Sadly, they are leaving doors and windows open or unlocked and this is proving easy pickings for opportunist thieves.

"Over the weekend, the Prestwich area suffered a number of thefts while the house occupants were in the garden."

He added: "Our advice is simple: if you are in the garden or nipping to a neighbours, then secure your homes. It only takes a second to steal."