Police have issued urgent advice to residents living in rural Wiltshire homes after a number of burglaries believed to be connected.

A house in Lower North Wraxall and West Kington was broken into overnight on Thursday, September 5, and valuable items such as jewellery and cash were allegedly stolen.

But according to Wiltshire Police, who are investigating the burglary, this is one of a number of similar burglaries with reoccurring patterns.

PC Ashton Schorah, who works on the burglary team, said: "Rural and remote properties just north of the A420 seem to be targeted.

"These properties are often large, old and are not overlooked by neighbours.

"We believe the suspects are using large vehicles with cloned number plates.

"They are also wearing COVID-style face masks.

"The suspects are parking up in laybys and then approaching the houses on foot and entering them when empty. Due to their structure, the offenders seem to force entry quickly."

PC Schorah added: "We'd urge anyone who sees a large vehicle that they do not recognise parked up to contact police straight away on 999.

"We would also urge homeowners to follow our advice on our website and think about fitting CCTV."

The police force has assured the public that burglary remains a top priority for Wiltshire Police, and residents living north of the A420 may see an increased police presence in the coming weeks.

However, full advice and tips on how to protect your home can be found on Wiltshire Police's website.