POLICE are warning residents to be vigilant following a spate of burglaries in Southminster and Mayland.

Five properties were broken into between Wednesday and Thursday in the area.

Homes were targeted in Batts Road, Maldon Road and Grange Avenue, in Southminster, and in Steeple Road and Old Heath Road, in Mayland.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “The method of entry has been usually via rear patio or French doors. These have occurred during the daytime between 9am and 5pm.

“The level of search by the offenders has been extreme with very untidy searches in all areas of the house. On one occasion a safe has been stolen. The main items taken have been jewellery.

“We will be targeting patrols in the area, and our CID are following up investigative opportunities, but please be alert and report anything suspicious.

“It is highly likely the offenders will be in a vehicle and there will be two or three of them, rather than one person acting alone.

“Please report on 999 any activity which you feel isn’t right. Please take steps to protect any highly sentimental or valuable jewellery.”