PEOPLE in Ramsbottom are being warned about a spate of 'sneak-in thefts' which have taken place in neighbouring towns.

PC John Flowers wants to put the message out to residents in the area to prevent them being caught out.

He said: "I want people to follow simple crime prevention methods to prevent any incidents in Ramsbottom.

"There have been eight separate bogus type calls, sneak-in-thefts and distraction burglaries in the past week.

"In some of the incidents people have been in their gardens when the thieves struck So I would urge residents to be extra vigilant now that the nights are drawing in."

PC Flowers has put together a few simple steps for people to follow.

He said: "Be cautious by not letting strangers into your home. Make sure doors have a chain on them so you are not exposed to the person at the door.

"Check the identity of callers and if you are not sure about them, give us a call.

"And if you are in your back garden, make sure the back door is locked because thieves can be in and out in no time, which can cause a lot of distress."