DOZENS of families have been hit by burglaries during a spate of raids in Ipswich.In the last two weeks raiders have blitzed more than 35 homes and business premises have been broken into and more than £17,000 worth of goods have been stolen.

BY GEORGINA JAMES

georgina.james@eveningstar.co.uk

DOZENS of families have been hit by burglaries during a spate of raids in Ipswich.

In the last two weeks raiders have blitzed more than 35 homes and business premises have been broken into and more than £17,000 worth of goods have been stolen.

One hotspot is the west-side of town, which has seen more than 20 burglaries. East Ipswich has suffered 12 break-ins.

Burglars do not appear to be striking in any particular pattern, breaking in at all times of day and night. Some houses have been occupied and others empty at the time of the crime.

Police are urging residents to be on guard and to take preventative measures in order to deter potential thieves.

Martin Ransome, community safety sergeant for the southern area of the county, said: "Unfortunately in many of these offences entry was made easy for the thief by occupiers leaving doors or windows unlocked.

"The advice is, even if you are at home, keep your doors locked. Ground floor rear windows are particularly vulnerable and window locks should be used. Keys should never be left in doors especially if a cat flap is fitted.

"We would like to reassure people who may feel that becoming a victim of crime is almost inevitable. Ipswich is still a very safe place to live, with Suffolk having one of the lowest crime rates in the country.

"We must also ask, where is all this property going? Someone must know who is disposing of this stolen property and anyone with information should phone Ipswich CID on 01473 383133 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

N Have you been a victim of a burglary? Tell us your story. Write in to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or visit the forum at www.eveningstar.co.uk

Don't be a victim – take preventative measures.

N a third of burglars get in through back windows.

N window locks force the thief to break glass and risk attracting attention.

N never leave keys in doors.

N do not tempt the thief – keep valuables out of sight.

N visible burglar alarms make burglars think twice.

N consider changing door locks when moving into a new property.

N fit sheds and garages with strong padlocks.

N remember to postcode your property – it makes it harder for burglars to sell.

N be alert to people loitering in residential areas and if concerned call the police.