Great Barr estate hit by six burglaries in month

Burglars have struck on a Great Barr housing estate six times in just one month, police said today, leading to officer patrols being stepped up.

Homes in the Appleton Avenue and Waddington Avenue areas were targeted.

Councillors today reassured residents, and said they were keen for alleyways running through the estate to be blocked off as they believed they played a part in the spate of crime.

A man in his early 20s has been arrested and bailed in connection with the investigation into the burglaries, which happened last month.

The local neighbourhood policing team are urging residents to be vigilant.

Sgt Kym Jones said: "During the month of June, Newton ward has suffered six burglary offences. One arrest has been made in relation to one of the offences.

"It is worthy to note that the main method of entering the dwellings is through the rear of the property.

"However, I don't want to alarm residents as Newton is still the lowest crime area in Sandwell."

Newton ward councillor David Hosell said: "We do get a few spates at various times of the year. It's down to the design of the estate and a number of passageways which we are keen to get gated off."

Anyone with information should call 101.