A SPATE of break-ins saw the number of burglaries in Basildon almost double last month.

Thieves targeted 108 homes across the borough in November, compared with 62 in October.

Burglaries have continued into this month. A £2,900 haul of jewellery was taken from a house in Victoria Avenue, Wickford, at 6pm on Sunday.

Police have increased patrols to reduce the problem and are advising residents to hide Christmas presents to avoid attracting thieves.

Chief Insp Richard Sage said: “Burglars will go window shopping in residential streets and look to see if there is anything to steal.

“Unfortunately, if they see a Christmas tree with lots of presents they could see it as easy pickings and target your property. Please consider storing away goods in a safe place out of view from windows and doors.

“Imagine the distress and upset to find the presents you have bought for your children and loved ones have been stolen and someone has intruded your home.”

He said many of the victims have failed to secure uPVC doors properly and urged residents to ensure they are locked.

Two suspected burglars arrested in the area during the past months have been charged and appeared before the courts.

Anyone with information about burglaries in Basildon can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.