Police are warning residents to secure their property after a spate of burglaries on outbuildings, in which tools and equipment have been stolen.

Properties in the villages of Cherhill, Compton Bassett, Goatacre, Hilmarton and East Tytherton have been targeted and the police believe many of them are linked.

Sergeant Nick Shorten of Calne police said there have been 20 offences in just a month.

"Farm buildings are being targeted and we would ask residents to make sure all their property is secure," he said. "They should have proper locks and be secure at all times.

"People should also be wary of any vehicles on roads leading to farms."

Some of the offences have occurred in the early evening and others have taken place overnight.

"If anyone sees anything suspicious they should report it to the police immediately."