HOUSEHOLDERS in Stowmarket and Onehouse were today warned to beware after a spate of burglaries in the area.More than 20 homes with open doors or windows have been targeted since May, including three within a two-day period last week.

HOUSEHOLDERS in Stowmarket and Onehouse were today warned to beware after a spate of burglaries in the area.

More than 20 homes with open doors or windows have been targeted since May, including three within a two-day period last week.

Police believe the crimes are linked and today renewed appeals for members of the public to look at their home security.

The latest burglaries happened between 11pm on Wednesday and 7am the following day, when offenders entered addresses in Purcell Road and Wordsworth Road through unlocked doors. Cash, bankcards and a wallet were stolen.

And between 3am and 4am on Friday a home in Northfield Road, Onehouse was hit. A bag containing a purse with cash, bankcards and a mobile phone was taken.

Detective chief inspector Jon Brighton, of Suffolk police, believes the crimes could all have been avoided.

He said: "By closing your windows and your doors you can take a significant step to preventing an unwelcome intruder entering your home.

"We have all left a window or a door open or unlocked at one time or another. However, if we all made a point of checking them before we go to bed or leave the home we could save the heartache of having valuables stolen.

"We know that opportunist thieves commit most burglaries, so my message to everyone is simple - Don't make it easy for them – keep your home secure at all times, even when you are inside.

If anyone has any information relating to any of these offences they should call Stowmarket CID on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

If you witness any suspicious activity and you think a crime has just been committed, or is about to be committed, dial 999 immediately to give police the best opportunity to apprehend the offender.