POLICE have made a pledge to increase their profile in a Grays residential area after a spate of garden raids.

Last week a number of homes were targeted by thieves who broke into garden outbuildings and one property had a summer house trashed as well as property stolen.

Police have responded by asking residents to ensure their properties are secure – and have also called for anyone who has information or camera footage to contact them.

A statement says: "We have received reports of a number of burglaries in sheds and outbuildings in Grays.

"They happened in the Nutberry Avenue and Lodge Lane area of the town between 1am and 2.30am on Thursday, 3 February.

"One residential address was entered in Lodge Lane and alcohol was stolen.

"You can expect to see an increased police presence in the area, including officers from the Essex Police Disruptor Team."

Detective Superintendent Jon Burgess, of the West Local Policing Area team, said: "There are some really simple steps you can take to help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

"Please make sure you secure all outbuildings at night, including sheds, summerhouses and greenhouses.

"Keep keys out of sight and reach of doors and windows, but easily accessible in case you need them in an emergency.

"I also need anyone who has any information, CCTV, dash cam or Ring doorbell footage to contact my team. If you have any information you can submit a report online here or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

"You can also call us on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

For further advice on protecting your home, police suggest you visit their website at Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Essex Police