POLICE are warning people to lock their doors and windows to deter the burglars this Summer.

This call comes after burglars got into a bungalow in Vallance Close, Shoebury, through an unlocked back door. They stole a purse containing £70.

It happened between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on Friday, June 24.

PC Reece Brent, of Southend police, said: “Please make sure you shut, lock and fully secure doors and windows, even in hot weather, when you’re going out of your house or even just leaving a room. "It only takes seconds for a passing burglar to seize their opportunity and quickly nip into an open house to grab what they can see, so it simply isn’t worth taking the risk.”

Anyone with information on this incident can contact PC Brent at Southend police station on 0300 3334444.