Lock-up alert after villages plundered

PLEA for extra vigilance . . . Royce Franklin

An appeal has gone out across Saddleworth villages after a spate of random burglaries.

Last weekend, five attacks on property were reported and now Royce Franklin, chair of the Saddleworth Homewatch, is urging householders to be extra vigilant and report any incidents to police.

Mr Franklin, himself a former police officer, said: “These burglaries occurred in virtually every village in Saddleworth and over a very short period.

“Just as importantly, at various times of the day and night.

“At times when there is economic downturn there is always a danger crime will increase.

“That places an added responsibility on us all to be extra vigilant and report anything to the police, no matter how apparently trivial it may appear at first sight .

“The police in this area have had some good arrests in the recent past but they can never have too much help from members of the community.

“We must never be afraid of informing police about anything. They welcome contact,” he said.

And he urged householders to keep doors and windows locked — even if they were in another part of their homes.

Police confirm Saddleworth has been suffering a spate of domestic burglaries for several months.

But Sgt Craig Johnson, officer for Saddleworth and Lees township, said: “Operations run by Saddleworth Neighbourhood team in conjunction with officers from specialist units in Oldham has resulted in several excellent arrests.

“We will continue to treat this problem as a priority, with additional resources being deployed.”