POLICE today issued a warning to residents after a would-be burglar tried to steal a set of keys using a home-made device through a letterbox.
The gadget - made from a magnet connected to a bamboo cane by a shoe lace - was found after burglars fled a property in Aysgarth Drive, Accrington, empty-handed.
DS Mark Rothwell, of Accrington CID, said: "The tool had been pushed through the letter box in a attempt to steal a set of keys on the table.
"After much trying they dropped the tool inside the house and made off, which disturbed the occupier.
"We do not know if they had intended to steal the vehicle in the driveway or to gain entry to the house to burgle it.
"People should be made aware of this as it is not an uncommon offence and if at all possible keys should be kept away from view and reach of the letter box."
Anyone with information on this incident, which took place around 4.10am on Tuesday, should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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