Householders are being reminded to keep their sheds and garages secure after a spate of thefts.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has reported a slight rise in the number of outbuildings and garages being broken into - and police suspect many more have gone unreported.

Allotments in Furzehill Road in Borehamwood are a particular target, with the Safer Neighbourhood Team being informed of a number of break-ins in the area.

They are warning members of public to ensure sheds and gates are kept locked.

Inspector Paul Lawrence of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Crime Reduction Unit said: “Sheds, garages and outbuildings are often targeted by thieves as they tend to be less secure than homes and often hold expensive gardening and power tools or bikes and exercise equipment.

“Many people leave expensive items like lawnmowers or bikes out in the garden – where a thief just needs to climb a fence or unlock a gate to get at it. Tools left out in the garden like spades or forks can also be used by burglars to break into homes.”