VILLAGERS near Bradford on Avon have been urged to check their security after a spate of burglaries.

Householders have also been asked to keep an eye on neighbouring properties to help stop thieves ruining someone's Christmas.

PC Shaun Thomas, of Bradford on Avon police, said: "We have had a series of burglaries in the Wingfield, Limpley Stoke and Westwood area.

"We ask all people to double check their security at this time of year."

In one of the latest incidents, thieves struck at a house in Linden Crescent, Lower Westwood, after forcing a window, and stole jewellery.

It is thought the thieves ripped a security light from a wall and may have hit at night.

PC Thomas said: "We are asking anyone living in the Westwood area who had any strange or unusual callers, or saw any persons in vehicles acting suspiciously, to contact us."

Anyone who thinks they may have seen the thieves in Lower Westwood between November 28 and 30 is asked to contact PC Thomas at Bradford police station on (01225) 862222.

He said the thieves may have parked a vehicle in the small lane which links Upper and Lower Westwood which could have inconvenienced other road users.