Police are urging residents to be vigilant and are appealing for witnesses after a spate of burglaries in Didcot.

Last night, thieves broke into a house in Long Furlong and stole a laptop and some car keys. They then drove away in the car, a blue Audi TT Quattro, registration DE51 FJZ.

On the same night, a house in Westwater Way was burgled and car keys were stolen, although the car wasn’t taken.

Det Con Rich Allmond said: “In both burglaries offenders gained access to the properties via the letterbox using a stick, or other device to reach through to unlock the doors.

“It is imperative residents ensure they secure all the doors and windows securely including always dead-locking your doors. Pulling the handle up or down is not enough.

“A door is not properly locked unless a key is used to double lock it. Make sure you also hide the keys either in a drawer or take them upstairs when you go to bed.”

If you have any information about the burglaries, contact Det Con Rich Allmond via 0845 8 505 505. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. If you witness a crime in progress, ring 999.