More than £150,000 worth of jewellery has been stolen in a series of burglaries in the last month, according to Hertfordshire police.

The raids have occurred in Watford, where three burglaries totalled £120,000 in stolen goods, as well as five more in Bushey and Harpenden.

In light of the thefts, officers at the Hertfordshire Constabulary are warning residents to make sure their homes are secure. 

Inspector Paul Lawrence said: "Burglars prefer empty homes and will often pick homes that look less secure. 

"Taking basic steps to secure your home can be enough to deter many burglars. 

"If you have made a significant investment in gold and jewellery, it makes sense to take all possible precautions to protect these items."