POLICE have renewed their appeal to residents of the Sunnyhurst area of Darwen to be vigilant as the spate of thefts continued.

Despite extra officers in either high-visibility uniform or plain clothes being despatched to the area, seven burglaries have been committed in as many days. Det Sgt Ian Critchley, of Darwen CID, said they suspected a gang of white males were responsible.

On Thursday, between 5.30 and 11.40pm, a back window was smashed and a £60 torch stolen from a house in Westwell Street.

Around the same, time a DVD player was stolen after a house in Earnsdale Road was broken into.

Anyone who has information should call Darwen CID on 01254 353842, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.