POLICE have launched an appeal for witnesses following a series of burglaries in north and west Dorset.

SEVEN burglaries have taken place over the last month, including three in Beaminster and three in Sherborne.

The latest incident happened between 4pm and 8.40pm this Tuesday, December 2, in the Drove Road area of Thornford, Sherborne.

Offenders gained access by smashing a patio door at the rear of the property before making off with cash and jewellery.

Other incidents include a burglary on November 4, which occurred between 7.55am and 5.30pm in Culverhayes in Beaminster.

A second property was targeted in Culverhayes between 4.45pm and 6pm on December 1, and a third burglary took place between 10am on November 7 and 11.30am on November 10 at an address in the Tunnel Road area of Beaminster.

In north Dorset, a burglary took place between 5.30pm on November 13 and 6.30pm on November 14 in Halstock, Yeovil.

There were two more burglaries in Sherborne last month - the first occurred between 4.00 and 4.30pm on November 14 in Leigh, and the second happened between 11.30am and 8pm on November 17 in St Osmund Close in Yetminster, both in Sherborne.

Sgt Neil Wood, of Dorchester police, said: “We are keeping an open mind as to whether these crimes are linked.

"In the majority of incidents the offenders gained access by smashing windows or doors. Burglars made off with jewellery, cash and electrical items.

“I am appealing to anyone with information about who may be responsible for these crimes to contact me urgently. All calls will be dealt with in strict confidence.

“I would also urge residents to take some simple crime preventions steps to avoid being a victim of burglary. Don’t make it easy for someone to target your property.”

Dorset Police has also issued the following advice to homeowners: Ensure that all windows and doors are closed and securely locked, secure any rear and side entrances to your property, and fit a security alarm to your home, shed and outhouses and use it.

They also advised residents not to leave valuable items on view near doors and windows, keep an eye out for vulnerable and elderly neighbours, join local Neighbourhood Watch Schemes and report anything they see that is suspicious.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incidents are encouraged call Dorset Police on 101, quoting incident number 2:385.