Ashington householders urged to lock up

Posted by The Journal on Jan 13, 09 12:19 PM in News

Ariel Street in Ashington Decades ago people in Ashington's close-knit colliery rows prided themselves on being able to leave their doors open, safe in the knowledge that nothing would be stolen.

But now families in the former pit town have been warned by police that they risk losing valuable possessions by copying the trusting habits of their predecessors.

Householders have been urged by Northumbria Police to be on their guard following a series of sneak-in burglaries in the town.

The message comes in the wake of a number of incidents where opportunistic thieves have gained access to properties simply by walking through unlocked doors.

Yesterday Insp Richard Yeates said: "There have been seven incidents in Ashington over the past few weeks where offenders have taken advantage of doors which have not been locked.

"They have gained entry and left with small items such as purses and wallets. Many people keep their doors unlocked during the day for ease, especially families who have children going in and out of the house.

"Older doors with Yale-style locks secure themselves instantly when they are closed. However, more modern UPVC doors do not.''

Anyone with any information about the sneak-in burglaries, or who sees anyone acting suspiciously, is asked to contact their neighbourhood policing team on (0345) 604-3043.

Residents are urged by police to fit and use good quality locks to all doors, remove all keys from locks and leave them out of sight of any intruders and ensure that car keys are not visible or kept in an obvious place which makes it easy for a burglar.

They are also advised to lock both front and rear doors even when in the house.

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