Police are investigating an attempted burglary in north Dorset.

The incident occurred at a property in Barton Hill in Shaftesbury at around 12.55pm on Monday. August 20.

It was reported that a man was seen trying to climb over a gate into a secure area of the property. He managed to get halfway over before being disturbed and ran away in the direction of the town centre.

The man was described as white, in his 40s, overweight and with mousey brown hair. He was wearing a dark blue top, denim jeans and black shoes and was carrying a Tesco bag.

Police Constable Matt Weldon, of North Dorset police, said: “We are making a number of enquiries into this incident and I am appealing to anyone who saw any suspicious activity or a man matching the description in the area around the time of the incident to contact us.

“I would also urge homeowners in the area to remain vigilant and make sure their properties are secure at all times.”

For more advice on how to protect your home visit dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/home-property-belongings/protect-your-home/.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180134453.