GWENT Police have issued advice to homeowners about how to keep their wheelie bins safe after a spate of thefts.

Over the last month six wheelie bins have been stolen from the Greenfield Street area of New Tredegar, Rhymney.

CSO Kath Young said: “People think that steeling wheelie bins is harmless, but theft is a crime. It’s also an inconvenience for the homeowner who is without a bin to put their household rubbish in.

"The New Tredegar Ward team have been increasing their patrols in this area and raising awareness amongst the local residents, so hopefully they will follow these simple crime prevention tips and help prevent any further thefts in the area.”

* Add your house number and post code to your bin using paint or marker

* Keep your bin in your back garden or out of sight in a garage or shed

* Try and retrieve your bin as soon as possible after the council have collected

* Try to secure your bin by using a chain or bike lock and attaching it in your garage or to your property

Officers are currently looking for your support and help by reporting any suspicious activity immediately by calling Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.