POLICE are warning Bishop Auckland residents to be vigilant after a spate of burglaries.
More than 60 residents in Cottonhill, Woodhouse Close and the town centre have been targeted since the beginning of the year.
PC Neil Prentice, of Bishop Auckland beat team, said: "Cars are being broken into because owners are leaving goods on view.
"Now the warmer weather is approaching, people are going in and out of their houses and leaving back doors unlocked and windows open.
"This means a burglar can be in and out in a matter of seconds."
In January and February, the three areas had 30 burglaries and break-ins each.
So far this month, there have been nine.
The figures also include shed break-ins with expensive gardening equipment stolen.
PC Prentice said: "We are warning everyone to make sure they lock doors and keep windows closed when leaving the house and not to leave items on display in their cars."
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