Staffordshire police warning as tools stolen for break-ins

Thieves are breaking into sheds across Staffordshire and then using tools to force their way into people's homes, police warned today.

There has been a spate of burglaries across Lichfield, Cannock Chase and Stafford. Cash, jewellery and laptop computers have all been stolen.

On June 1, thieves tried to break in to a house in Gorse Lane, Rugeley, by using a spade they had taken from the shed.

Burglars then forced their way into a house in Crescent Road, Stafford, on the 14th and stole laptops.

Cash and a watch were also taken from a house in Queen Street, Lichfield, on June 26 after thieves smashed their way inside.

Staffordshire Police spokeswoman Jane Hoult told people to keep their sheds secure as thieves would use any means necessary to get inside homes.

She said: "Residents are reminded to keep their outbuildings and homes secure at all times and report any suspicious activity to police."