Garden theft rises year on year

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The Altrincham Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) has issued a warning to local residents following a spate of shed break-ins in the area. There have been 14 shed or garage break-ins in Altrincham over the last month, several of which occurred in the Timperley area. Bikes, tools, and lawn mowers were the most common items targeted by thieves, many of whom broke in after finding an unsecured door or cutting the locks.The NPT have upped their patrols in areas considered most at risk, and are providing free shed alarms to residents there. Bail checks and visits to the homes of known offenders are also being carried out. Officers are advising shed and garage owners to use locks that flips over and does not offer access to screws. They also suggest locking away tools after working in the garden, as burglars could use these to their advantage. Other tips include using security lighting, adding gravel to paths as it creates a noise and acts as a deterrent and using prickly plants in the garden.

Inspector Clark Bowers of the NPT, said: "While we are keeping a close eye on known offenders, it is important that people who might be at risk of shed burglary help us to minimise that risk." They can do this by following our simple advice, being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity in their area. This is about making sure people with sheds are aware that the valuable property they keep inside them is desirable to thieves.

Power tools, lawnmowers and gardening equipment can be easily sold on by unscrupulous individuals. By working together, we can ensure fewer people suffer the distress and inconvenience of becoming a victim of burglary.To report crime call police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555 111. For more information visit www.gmp.police.uk.

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