More than a dozen garages were broken into in Romney Marsh during one month, prompting a police warning.

Burglars targeted the garages in Cedar Crescent in late June and July, with two occurring between July 1-2.

The victims, a man and a woman aged in their 70s, woke to find their garages had been opened but reported that no items had been stolen.

Another break-in was reported to have occurred between June 29 - July 1, no items were taken.

Kent Police is advising residents in Romney Marsh to keep their garages secure.

Detective inspector Kevin Stephens said: ‘Garages and sheds can contain high value equipment such as bikes, power tools and gardening equipment, so it’s important to have security measures in place.

"Consider installing alarms, security lights, and padlocks to avoid falling prey to opportunistic thieves.

"I would also encourage residents to contact their local Police Community Support Officer to arrange a time for their property to be security marked.

"Although in these cases no items are reported to have been stolen, it is possible thieves may have been searching for high value equipment."

Officers are keen to speak to anyone with information about the burglaries or the identity of those involved.

Witnesses are asked to call the appeal line on 01843 222289 quoting reference number ZY/30748/17.

Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Further advice

1. If you have shed or garage alarms ensure they are activated and use close shackle padlocks and install security lights where possible.

2. Make sure garden gates are closed and locked from the inside and store bins and ladders carefully so they can’t be used as climbing aids.

3. Disable lawn mowers and other large machinery when not in use and chain items together or to a solid anchor point.

4. Use forensic marking kits on possessions. These are traceable liquids which carry a unique forensic code, registered to an address or location. They are known to be deterrent to thieves and can help us identify suspects. Local neighbourhood watch groups will be able to advise you on how to do this.

5. Use lockable hanging baskets or secure the baskets to their brackets.

6. Take photographs and record details such as serial numbers and identifying marks as these can also help to identify items if they get lost or stolen.

7. You could also consider registering valuables on a property database such as www.immobilise.com.