POLICE are warning residents to be vigilant after a spike in the number of burglaries in the Blackwood area in the last month.

Cash and jewellery were stolen in streets including Sunny View in Argoed, Rushmere Road in Pontllanfraith and Pwllglas Road in Cefn Fforest.

St Annes Road in Bonnie View, Blackwood was the target of a distraction burglary where keys were stolen. Jewellery was stolen in Golwg Y Bont in Upper Trelyn and jewellery and games consoles were stolen in Fleur De Lys Avenue in Pontllanfraith. Cinnaber Drive in Pontllanfraith was also the target of an attempted burglary.

Police said in the majority of crimes reported, the rear doors were damaged to gain entry during the daytime.

Blackwood Inspector, Carl Williams, said: "We are currently investigating each reported crime and asking residents to secure their property.

“Extra patrols have now been put in place by uniformed and plain clothed officers, we also have a tasking team of officers being deployed over the weekends.

“I also want remind people not to leave valuable items on view or in reach of open windows, especially as the weather improves and people tend to leave windows and doors open.

“Please report any suspicious activity immediately by calling Gwent Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”