HOMEOWNERS were given a stark wake-up call after a police operation found many had left their homes, cars and garages unlocked.

Police and Swindon Council officers went house-to-house in Peatmoor and Sparcells yesterday morning to warn residents to keep their possessions under lock and key following a recent spike in burglaries and car break-ins in the area.

West Swindon police said almost 90 per cent of the 16 burglaries which have taken place recently have been down to opportunists simply walking through an open door.

The operation found 35 houses and 22 cars insecure in Sparcells and five garages and 10 cars in Peatmoor, with the owners all issued with advice.

Inspector Adrian Burt urged residents not to give thieves an easy chance.

He said: “The operation went well and a large number of residents were engaged by officers.

“Many were unaware their premises or vehicles were unlocked and they were thankful we let them know.

“In all the garages you had bikes, tools, gym equipment, golf clubs, toys and electrical items, while there was even a van which contained thousands of pounds in tools and electrical equipment.

“The recent crime in the area has all been overnight and wasmainly insecurities of cars, garages and houses. This makes it extremely easy for offenders.

“It could be these are local people or that some have migrated from other parts of West Swindon where we’ve had similar incidents. There has also been some vehicle crime in the north. People must lock their doors and not keep any valuables on show in their cars, even if they are locked.”

Five people have so far been arrested in connection with the burglaries, but Insp Burt said homeowners should be extra-vigilant and report anything suspicious.

He said: “Regardless of how slight it might seem, people must report it to us so we can act on it.”

Anyone with any information about crime in their area sould contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.