Police are appealing for information after a number of outbuildings in Beccles were broken into over the weekend.

At least six buildings on the marsh allotments accessed via Beccles Common, at the end of Common Lane North over the railway line, were broken into and attempts were made to gain access to at least two more.

In the majority of cases padlocks were forced and the sheds searched but only a few items were stolen, including a strimmer from one shed and a spade and crowbar from a stable.

The incidents appear to have occurred overnight between about 5.30pm on Saturday and 10am on Sunday.

Police are asking anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area or have information about those responsible to call PC 1567 Alder on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police are also urging shed and outbuilding owners to take security measures to protect their property, and advise that you reinforce the door with a wood panel across the inside. You can then drill through the door and panel and fit a hasp for a padlock by bolting through from the outside and tightening the nut on the inside, which prevents unscrewing or prising the screws off. Then secure with a good quality closed shackle padlock.

If your shed is in a residential area consider installing a shed alarm and try to reduce the number of valuable items kept inside.

For more advice please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team or Crime Reduction Officer at Suffolk Police by dialling 101 or visit the website at www.suffolk.police.uk