Police issue appeal and offer advice after thieves target garden sheds in Tadley near Newbury

Police are appealing for information after two garden sheds were targeted by thieves in Tadley.

The incidents happened some time overnight between Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23.

An offender or offenders broke down a fence at a property in Meon Close to gain entry to the garden before stealing power tools from the shed.

An offender or offenders also attempted to gain entry to a garden shed at a property in Gorselands.

They were unsuccessful and left empty handed.

The men police want to speak to in connection with the incidents are described as white, aged 18 to 25, and of skinny to medium build.

One was seen wearing a tracksuit and puffer coat.

Hampshire police have asked anyone with information about the two incidents to contact them online or on 101 quoting crime reference number 44240122940.

In the wake of the crimes, officers issued advice to homeowners in order to better protect outdoor items stored within sheds.

The advice included purchasing a battery-operated shed alarm, locking everything away in secure boxes or lockers, securing bikes with a lockable stand and property marking any items in case they are stolen.

A police spokesperson said: “Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in.

“It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws.

“Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable.

“If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills.

“And keep it locked at all times.”