Youths blamed after rise in vehicle crime

A number of streets in Carleton have been targeted with police suspecting one group of youths is responsible.

Six incidents of property being taken from parked vehicles were reported before the bank holiday with several more taking place over the weekend.

Now residents across Wyre are being warned to ensure their cars are locked and not be an easy target for opportunist thieves.

PC Graeme Cheetham, from the Wyre Neighbourhood Policing team, had a simple message for residents.

“Keep your cars locked and keep your valuables out of sight,” he said.

“I believe this is just one group of youths who are wandering around the streets and trying car doors.

“They are just looking for vehicles that have been left unlocked.

“We had more incidents reported over the weekend and people need to take basic precautions.”

The reported thefts have taken place in several streets around Carleton with numerous reports made from properties in Blackpool Old Road and Arundel Drive.

Sat Nav systems and cash are among the items which have been reported stolen.

The warning in Carleton is just one of a number issued in Wyre in recent weeks.

Poulton, Thornton and Cleveleys have also seen an increase in vehicle crime since the beginning of March.

Officers have taken to social media to warn the public.

But following another spate of thefts police issued a reminder to all residents

“The message is very simple,” said PC Cheetham.

“Keep your car locked and your valuable out of sight.

“These appear to be opportunist thefts.

“We have seen a spike in the number of these incidents in recent weeks.”

Police have also issued an appeal for witnesses after a burglar was disturbed in an unsecured Poulton home.

The incident happened on Saturday, between 2.15am and 2.30am.

Someone entered a house on Roylen Avenue in Poulton through the front door stealing property before being disturbed by the dog barking.

The offender left having collected some valuable items and was chased by attending officers but made good their escape.

Some of the stolen items have been recovered.

Anyone with information is asked to call (01253) 604911 quoting reference number WD1601831