POLICE have warned Yeovil people to be extra careful of making sure their homes are properly secured in the battle to beat the burglar.

While statistics across the Somerset East District of Avon and Somerset Constabulary show that 33 per cent of burglaries are 'walk-in' offences where burglars have gained entry due to an insecure door or window at the rear of the property, the figure in Yeovil alone is a lot higher.

Sgt Ian Baird, of Yeovil Police, said: "In Yeovil that figure is 43 per cent where intruders have just simply walked into somebody's home during the day.

"It is becoming a worrying statistic and I would warn homeowners just to be a little bit more careful with doors and windows."

He suggested that even if you have to go upstairs it would be wise to make sure that backdoors and windows were shut to deter possible burglars. He added that with, hopefully, warmer weather on the way it would be extra important not to relax over home security.

Sgt Baird also warned householders to be wary of bogus callers at the door or distraction burglaries where someone keeps the occupier at the front door talking, while an accomplice goes to the back of house to gain entry.