Police are urging people in South Cumbria to stay vigilant after a number of burglaries – which detectives believe are part of a pattern.
Four properties – three in Arnside and one in Kendal – were targeted between Thursday and Sunday.
The police are linking the incidents to around 30 other burglaries which have occurred in the same area of the last 12 months.
In Kendal, burglars broke into a bungalow in River Bank Road on Saturday night and stole cash and jewellery.
In Arnside, burglars broke into an unoccupied home in Church Hill before searching the property for valuables. The burglary is believed to have occurred between Thursday and Sunday.
Also in Church Hill, a property was broken into on the night of February 3. It is believed the only item taken was a purse containing cash.
In Orchard Road in Arnside, a property was broken into on the night of February 4. Nothing of note was taken despite an obvious search throughout the property.
A spokesman said: “Cumbria Constabulary have dedicated a team of detectives to investigate these crimes. The constabulary also have uniformed and plain clothed officers patrolling the specific areas of the burglaries to provide reassurance, act as a deterrent but also to try and identify and arrest those responsible.”
Detective Inspector Lee Brumpton added: “It would appear that homes are being targeted by burglars in rural parts of South Cumbria, close to the Lancashire border.
“This is a despicable crime, which has a serious impact on the victims. We are doing everything we can to prevent future burglaries and bring those responsible to justice.
“We have increased patrols in these areas and we are engaging with residents providing information and crime prevention advice. However, we would also seek support from the community.
“Firstly, we suspect the burglars are travelling to these areas in a vehicle to scout them out before breaking in. If you see something that just doesn’t seem right or someone acting suspiciously, either on foot or in a vehicle, if you can, take a note of the registration number or a description of the person and contact us straight away and we will prioritise and action the information immediately.
“Secondly, review your own security. Thieves will target what they consider to be easy targets including insecure and empty properties.”
People are urged to look at their own home security to keep their homes safe from burglars.
