Detectives have launched an inquiry after a number of properties on West Park Drive and North Park Drive were burgled last Wednesday and Thursday.

Police believe the thefts may have been committed by opportunist criminals taking advantage of the sunny weather to look for insecure windows or doors.

The break-ins have tended to focus on plush residences, with mid to high value goods taken.

The list of items stolen includes games consoles, laptop computers and jewellery, worth upwards of £1,000.

Sgt Jon Clegg, of Blackpool Police's robbery squad, said: "We are not sure if these offences have been committed by the same people or a number of different burglars.

"They seem to have targeted high-end properties, looking for doors or windows which may have been left insecure because of the nice weather.

"We don't want people to panic and think that their homes are being watched by professional burglars and believe these incidents could have been committed by people taking advantage of the situation when they see it.

Maintenance

"We will have high profile patrols in the area over the coming days and have sent out a questionnaire to people in the area warning them to be vigilant and asking residents if they have seen anything suspicious.

"The police also want to know if residents have had anyone calling offering maintenance work, selling door to door or saying they have got the wrong address."

Officers have conducted inquiries in the area surrounding where the burglaries have been committed.

They are now appealing for witnesses to come forward as they may have evidence which could be vital to the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Blackpool Police on (01253) 293933 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.