POLICE have called on Silverdale residents to remain vigilant after a series of break-ins around the village.

In one incident an elderly woman had £1,000 in cash stolen by a thief who climbed through her bedroom window.

Police have pledged to step up uniformed patrols in the village after three burglaries and two attempted burglaries in recent day.

Plain clothes officers will also work in the area, where thieves have entered homes using doors or windows which are not visible to neighbours or passing traffic.

Insp Ken Clayson said: "We rely heavily on the community to support us in identifying criminals and ask for any information which may help us to identify the offenders to be passed to the police."

Police have also advised local people to take precautions, including locking doors and windows, not leaving garden tools which my be used by a burglar and using security devices fitted to their homes.

Sgt Dai Dawkins added: "A burglary in your home is a very traumatic experience. However, it is important to realise that burglaries are still relatively rare and we should not become frightened in our own homes.

"A few simple precautions will significantly reduce the likelihood of a burglary in your home."

Police have asked for any suspicious activity to be passed to them on 01524 596942.