POLICE have increased patrols in parts of Skipton following a series of attempted burglaries by three suspects in the early hours of yesterday (Tuesday).

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: "We are urging residents of the the Broughton Road area, Sackville Street and Hayton Way to be vigilant as there has been a series of attempt burglaries in Skipton, most recently during the early hours of Tuesday (yesterday) Between 11.45pm and 12.45 am three unidentified males have been trying car doors and doors to residential premises.

"Where they have found insecure doors the offenders have gained access, they have then left the area. We believe that the offenders were actively trying to identify insecure properties to burgle and so we are urging residents to ensure that doors and windows to premises are locked and secured and that cars are locked also.

"Increased patrols in this area will be taking place."

On Friday last week (April 12) two chainsaws and a hedge cutter were stolen from a shed in the Crag Lane area of Sutton-in-Craven.

Police are appealing for any information, or any relevant CCTV footage, to the alleged theft, which took place between 12.30am and 2am on Friday. Contact police on 101, quoting reference number NYP_12042 024-0253.