Police in the East ward area of Peterborough have noticed an increase in the number of complaints received about the theft of garden ornaments, baskets, solar lights and other outdoor items.

They acknowledge that some smaller items are almost impossible to secure, but recommend that hanging baskets should be attached to a padlock.

Police officers also recommend that you move valuable ornaments to a back garden, and make sure they are also secured with a padlock.

Neighbourhood policing teams will be increasing patrols in the areas where the offences are taking place and urge anyone finding discarded ornaments or baskets in bushes to let them know.

They are also reminding residents to close any windows that they may have opened, even upstairs, when out to avoid making life easy for burglars.

Also be aware that windows at the front of the house could be an easy point of access when you are in the back garden.

You can call your local neighbourhood policing team on 0845 456 4564, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.