Police have urged people to take extra precautions in securing their homes following a string of burglaries.

There has been a significant increase in incidents across the St Albans area, and officers have reminded people to remain vigilant over the Christmas period.

It comes after a 14-year-old boy, two 17-year-old boys and a 24-year-old man were arrested in connection with a burglary in St Lawrence Way, Bricket Wood, where an Audi A6 was stolen on November 29. The Audi has since been recovered.

Elsewhere, enquiries are ongoing after a 41-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were arrested at an address in St Albans on suspicion of handling stolen goods on December 14.

And a 42-year-old man was arrested in Surrey on December 15 after he was wanted for a series of burglaries across the Home Counties, including a recent offence in Redbourn.

Detective Inspector Alex Warwick, from Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: “Unfortunately this time of year generally sees an increase in burglaries and the district of St Albans is a popular target due to the excellent travel network and its reputation as an affluent area.

“The most popular time of day still appears to be afternoons and evenings when it starts to get dark.

“Cars on driveways have been stolen during burglaries in Bricket Wood, Park Street and Fleetville and jewellery has also been the property of choice.

“We have seen a number of break-ins where windows and doors have been jemmied open and glass smashed to gain entry but also front doors have been forced.”

He explained that the increase in crime has led to additional patrols being put in place, and this has prevented a series of potential burglaries.

A number of cars have been recovered and DI Warwick noted how officers are working hard to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

He added: “No-one wants to be burgled and the psychological impact on victims is even worse at this time of year.

“We have had valuable assistance from eagle eyed members of the community who have reported suspicious activity resulting in the recovery of property and key investigative leads.”

He urged people to report any suspicious activity via the webchat facility on www.herts.police.uk or to call 101. And, if you see a burglary in progress, do not hesitate to call 999.