Police have urged homeowners in an Oxfordshire town to review their security measures after a rise in reports of thefts from outbuildings.

Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Taskforce said it would continue to patrol the Faringdon area and make enquiries because of the thefts.

It follows a number of offences in the Fernham and Longcot areas between April 16 and 17 when thieves gained access to residential properties and outbuildings and stole vehicles and high value equipment.

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The force urged people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity and suggested a range of security precautions.

This included to consider a shed alarm, CCTV, and security lights, and to secure out-buildings with good quality locks.

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It suggested to mark tools with something identifiable, such as a postcode, and to photograph valuables such as bikes and power tools and note any identifiable features, which makes it much easier for police to return items to owners if located.