POLICE have warned homeowners to keep their property secure after a number of burglaries.

Officers advised people on how to stop thieves invading their homes in the run-up to Christmas as police probe a number of burglaries in Barrow.

Cycling equipment and a puppy have been among items taken from homes in the past weeks.

Police advise residents to ·Remove keys from locks and keep out of reach of windows & doors ·Ensure side gates and sheds are locked ·Keep gifts, cash and valuables safe and well hidden, so they cannot be seen or reached by thieves

Police also said people should consider fitting a burglar alarm and register valuables on immobilise.com.

A spokesman said: "If you witness any suspicious activity please contact police on 101 or speak to a police officer or PCSO.

"If you witness a crime in action please call 999. "Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."

Police said they are investigating a burglary at an address on Bristol Street, Barrow, between November 16 and 28. Cycling equipment was stolen from the home.

Another probe was launched after an incident of burglary at house in Meetings View, Barrow, at around 11pm on November 25.

Officers said a 20-year-old man from Barrow was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent and released on police bail.

Officers say they are keen to speak to anyone with CCTV, smart doorbells, or dashcam footage in the vicinity of Meetings View. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact DC 2324 on 101, quoting incident number 226 of 25 November.

Police say burglary also occurred between 9am on November 18 and 2pm on November 19 at an home in Cameron Street, Barrow. Prescription medication and a grey lurcher puppy were taken during the incident. Officers say there are requesting the public’s help, to report any sightings of the puppy to the police.

Police also cautioned the public against taken medication that has not been prescribed to them. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact PC 2925 on 101, quoting incident number 4 of 20th November.

A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary following an incident in Longway, Barrow, in the early hours of November 17.

Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to get in touch.

Police also warned people to look out for their neighbour's property and not to publish that their house was empty on social media.