POLICE investigating a spate of thefts today issued a "lock up your ladders" appeal.

Officers in Burnley issued the warning as they continue to probe a spate of ladder thefts.

And they said owners of aluminium ladders should be particularly careful as they have been targeted in recent weeks -- and especially in the early evening when the thefts have been most prolific.

Most have been taken from car roof racks but police are urging residents not to leave ladders unattended outside their homes or in gardens either.

Insp John Clucas said: "There is no suggestion that the ladders are being used in burglaries so we think they are being taken purely for the thief's own use or so sale.

"I would urge anyone with aluminium ladders to ensure they are stored in a secure garage or shed when they are not in use rather than being left unattended on car roof racks, up against buildings or in back yards or gardens."

The two most recent cases were in Padiham over the weekend.

Insp Clucas also asked for people to report any suspicious activity around cars and gardens or if they were approached by anyone selling ladders.

He also recommended marking, engraving or postcoding their ladders in order to deter thieves and increase the chance of their property being returned to them.

He added: "Officers have found a number of sets of ladders after executing search warrants for stolen property but it has been hard to get them identified."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.