Burglars target elderly people's homes in Shropshire

Police are urging residents to tighten up on basic security after three homes were broken into.

Officers say the two burglaries at Willow Crescent in West Felton, and one in Ifton View, St Martins, are being linked.

The West Felton incidents happened shortly after 9pm on Monday night with the intruders getting in through open windows.

Nothing was stolen from one of the homes after two men were disturbed but four gold rings were taken in the other, including a 22ct wedding band with the inscription "Wood Fine".

Two intruders were also disturbed at the address in St Martins just before 10pm where property stolen included three gold sovereigns in a display case, a gold hunter's watch and a wedding band.

Detective Sergeant Julie Shephard said: "Now that the nights are lighter, we are reminding people to shut all ground floor windows at night-time or when they are away from home. It is important they also lock front and back doors at all times even when they are in the property.

"I am also appealing for witnesses who may have seen the offenders at either of these locations, perhaps with a vehicle. Anyone who spotted anything suspicious which might be related to the incidents, should contact the burglary unit at Shrewsbury police station by calling 101."

Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org