Bere Regis residents are being urged to lock windows and doors following a spate of overnight burglaries.

The warning comes after Dorset Police linked four burglaries this month where thieves have stolen handbags, mobile phones, camera and collectable coins.

Purbeck Neighbourhood Inspector Tracey Baker said: “This series of burglaries may be linked to an earlier incident on Tuesday, September 6, when a purse was removed from a property in Rye Hill Close.

“All the offences have taken place overnight or in the early hours of the morning and access has been gained via an insecure window or door.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed any of these burglaries, and anyone who has any information about those responsible, to contact police urgently.

“Also, I would urge anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual at these times in this area to contact police as soon as possible.”

The Safer Neighbourhood Team has given been busy giving crime prevention advice in Bere Regis by distributing leaflets.

She added: “Our advice is to be vigilant and ensure that windows and doors are kept secured and locked, particularly overnight or when you are going are out, and particularly in the lead up to Christmas. Any suspicious activities should be reported to Dorset Police.”

Anyone with any information should contact Dorset Police on 101.

Four burglaries linked

* 1st burglary: Between Sat Oct 8 at 12.30am and Sunday Oct 9 on West Street – handbag stolen

* 2nd burglary: Overnight between Thursday October 13 and Friday October 14 on West Street – a mobile phone, a watch and a quantity of cash was stolen

* 3rd burglary: Overnight between Saturday October 15 and Sunday October 16 in Bran Road – handbag stolen

* 4th burglary: In the early hours of Wednesday October 19, with personal possessions, including a mobile phone, a digital camera and collectable coins.