POLICE are urging residents to remain vigilant following reports of individuals attempting to look into gardens and around properties, possibly searching for metal items, tools, gates, security equipment and other valuables.

Officers are advising householders to take extra steps to secure their homes and outbuildings.

This includes keeping gates, sheds and other external buildings locked, ensuring tools and bicycles are stored out of sight, and installing security lighting or CCTV where possible.

Residents are also being encouraged to maintain fences and garden boundaries and to mark valuable items with identifying details.

Members of the public are being asked to look out for suspicious behaviour, including people entering gardens without permission, checking gates or sheds, unfamiliar vehicles driving slowly through areas, or individuals photographing security equipment and access points.

Anyone who sees anything suspicious is urged to contact police on 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergency concerns.

A police spokesperson said working together with the community is key to keeping neighbourhoods safe.