POLICE are warning householders that dark nights are the thieves' best friend following a series of raids.

They are urging people to take better security measures after a spate of shed burglaries in Sessay near Thirsk.

The thefts, involving hundreds of pounds of garden tools, a yellow Saracen mountain bike, and an Atco sit-on mower, are typical of the type of crime that increases at this time of year.

"Many people have finished for the year with equipment like lawnmowers and strimmers, so they put them away in the garden shed, along with their bicycles, and forget them," said a spokesman.

"The trouble is that thieves are well aware that there are expensive goods out there - and the dark nights provide perfect cover for them to move in.

"Garden equipment and bicycles are expensive and easily portable, and both can be found in sheds that may be easily broken into."

Basic precautions include keeping boundary fences, walls and gates in good repair and install security lights with sensors. Fix any weak points in the fabric of the shed. Put mesh or bars on the inside of windows, and fit a good-quality lock on the door. Fittings should be bolted through the door and reinforced at the back with a steel plate.