Residents across Suffolk are being urged to think about the security of their homes following a spate of burglaries in the east of the county.

Police have noticed a recent upturn in the number of offences in the Suffolk Coastal District and in more rural parts of Waveney and believe that one or more burglars are currently operating in the area.

Investigations are underway to catch those responsible, with additional patrols and evidence being gathered, but police are asking residents to step up security to reduce the chance of their home being targeted, especially if you are going away this bank holiday weekend.

In many cases it appears homes have been burgled while the occupants have been away, with properties left in darkness, sometimes without vehicles parked in front as there would usually be.

Among the most recent incidents are crimes in Worlingham, Wangford, Monewden, Trimley, Ufford and Otley.

In several burglaries electrical items such as phones, tablets and laptop computers have been stolen and officers are also urging those with such devices to take advantage of security apps that let you track your phone or erase its contents remotely if it is stolen.

DC Andy Barker, Suffolk Coastal CID, said: 'We have a number of lines of enquiry that we are following to trace those involved in these incidents but we are also asking residents to help us by taking some simple crime reduction steps and are urging you to call us immediately if you see or hear anything suspicious.

'Several of the properties that have been targeted have been homes where the householder is away on holiday and there have been no lights on or vehicle outside – in short there is no sign that the address is occupied.

'Leaving your lights on a timer device while you are out is a simple and inexpensive way of making it appear as though you are at home. Timer devices are available from most good DIY stores and are usually available for under £10 – a small investment to protect hundreds or thousands of pounds worth of items in your home.

'If you are going away consider getting a trusted relative, friend or neighbour to look after your home, and perhaps think about leaving a vehicle outside it if you can. Any steps you can take like this can make a difference.'

More information on how to safeguard your home is available from your local Safer Neighbourhood Team by calling 101, or visit www.suffolk.police.uk.

However if you hear glass being smashed, see someone climbing over a back wall or fence when you know they shouldn't be there, or spot anyone acting suspiciously, call 999 immediately. Officers will attend as quickly as they can and would rather find that it is a false alarm than have more homes burgled.