Shed burglary spate prompts police warning

Over the last week, officers have received reports of thieves targeting sheds at the allotments on Gladstone Street, Glossop. No items have been stolen but the locks have been forced.

In one incident, offenders smashed the bolt to the main gates of the site before using tools to cut the padlock from a shed door to gain entry.

Following the incidents, officers from the Glossop Safer Neighbourhood Team will be heading out on targeted patrols in the area and are actively encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

PCSO Ann Morris, of the Glossop Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “We would like to encourage residents and gardeners to make sure that their sheds are properly secured to help prevent them from being targeted by thieves.

“Try to avoid storing valuable items or equipment in sheds and invest in a good quality lock.

“It is also beneficial to security mark your property as this can help to deter a potential thief and also help the police to trace and return your items if they are stolen and later recovered.”