Police in Rutland are reminding homeowners to ensure their properties are secure during the run-up to Christmas.

Residents are being urged to take simple crime prevention measures to help stop their homes becoming targeted by burglars.

The advice comes just weeks after five homes in Oakham and Uppingham were broken into in one day – thieves escaped with a haul of cash, jewellery and other property worth more than £11,500.

Inspector Siobhan Gorman, from the Eastern Counties Neighbourhood Policing Area, said: "It's always important, all year round, to make sure your house is secure.

"Making sure your doors and windows are secure will hinder anyone attempting to access your property.

"As Christmas gets closer, don't leave gifts on show at home and don't leave them in your car – this makes it very easy for a would-be burglar to attempt to break in.

"Burglaries are often carried out by those who see an opportunity – so by making your home secure, takes some of the opportunity away."

Rutland officers are also keen to remind people that, depending on the policy, some insurance companies will not pay out if homes are burgled if left insecure.