Police in Norwich are urging families to step up the security of their sheds and garages after a spate of break-ins.

Over the past few days, nine sheds and garages have been broken into in the Lakenham and Tuckswood parts of the city.

Five garages in Hall Road were broken into overnight on Wednesday (October 27) although nothing was stolen.

But a BMX bike was snatched when a shed was broken into in Mansfield Lane between Tuesday (October 26) and Thursday (October 28).

At around 1am on Thursday (October 28), three sheds were broken into in Holls Lane, although nothing was stolen.

Sergeant Gary Hackett from Lakenham and Tuckswood safer neighbourhood team, said 'Having your shed or garage broken into and also having items stolen is distressing and causes a huge inconvenience to those affected.

'We would urge local residents to ensure they have an appropriate padlock on the shed door.

'In some cases the clasp on the sheds are fitted so that the screws are facing on the outside, meaning if the screws are taken off, the door easily comes open and you don't have to take off the padlock.'

Any witnesses to the break-ins, or anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area between the times stated should call Norfolk police on 0845 456 4567 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you find your shed or building has been broken into, leave everything in place to aid forensic detection and report it to police.