Police have urged the public to stay vigilant after a spate of burglaries across Kidderminster. 

Three addresses were targeted yesterday evening (Thursday, December 7) by thieves who were possibly in a red coloured Ford car or van. 

A group of four men wearing balaclavas were also seen in the same area and reported to police last night. 

The break-ins happened between 5.30pm and 7.30pm with a number of items stolen including jewellery, a laptop, an Apple watch and expensive trainers. 

Detective Constable Steph Docherty-McNeil said: "We do not wish to alarm the public but this spike in burglaries is a timely reminder that if you want to protect your home from burglars, you should keep your homes locked and secured and follow our crime prevention advice. 

"You can mark your belongings with our Smartwater property protection system which is available by contacting our local policing team and registering valuables on the UK National Property Register at immobilise.com too." 

West Mercia Police have also issued some top tips to keep homes secure including locking all windows and doors, keeping valuables out of sight, shutting curtains and setting a burglar alarm. 

It is also important to secure gates, sheds and garages to keep cars and outdoor valuable safe too. 

For more information on protecting your home from burglars visit www.westmercia.police.uk