POLICE in Nelson are warning residents to be vigilant after a spate of shed break-ins.

There have been seven shed burglaries in the space of four days in the St Paul's Road area of the town as thieves target tools.

Police want locals to report anyone acting suspiciously and are advising that sheds are kept secure with bulky locks.

The shed raids all happened from Thursday to Sunday night.

In one, on Saturday night, £1,200 worth of tools, including a tool set, hedge trimmer and cordless drill, were stolen from a shed on St Paul's Road. Other break-ins have happened on the same road and nearby Hibson Road and Chapel House Road.

Locks had been smashed and doors forced open to gain access.

Insp John Bullas said: "There has been a significant increase in sheds being broken into and there's a particular place where it is happening.

"We think it is the same individual or the same individuals who are targeting sheds for tools. We do have spates where sheds get attacked.

"If residents see anyone acting suspiciously then please ring the police straight away. Take security measures by making sure there are substantial locks."