CHILDREN’S toys, electronic equipment and personal documents were all stolen after burglars targeted two homes in the same Tolladine street.
Both burglaries took place in Avon Road despite the homes being locked with the windows closed.
The first break-in happened some time between 10.30am and 1.50pm on Friday, November 15, when one of the occupants was out shopping.
She returned to find the front door had been kicked open and thieves had searched the rooms stealing four passports, the paper part of a driving licence, bank statements and utility bills.
The second burglary happened some time between 12.30pm on the same Friday and midday on Saturday, November 16.
The householder had stayed with her family overnight and returned to find the side gate open, the kitchen window smashed and back door open.
A number of items including an Xbox and games, Sony Playstation 3, Hewlett Packard printer, Panasonic digital camera, videos, CDs, DVDs and children’s toys valued at more than £330 were taken and an estimated £250 worth of damage caused to the property.
Det Cons Ed Shotton, from Worcester Police, said: “We are considering the offences are linked owing to the time frame and close proximity although the items stolen from each address are distinctly different.
“It is not often the offender would simply steal documentation only as seen from the first offence.
“The second offence has seen the offenders steal not only electrical items used daily by the family but children’s Christmas presents which is particularly a blow to any victim as it causes further financial loss to them and can have a negative impact on what should be the beginning of a fantastic time of year for their family.
“The offences are distressing to the homeowners and the local community.
“I would urge anyone who is offered items matching the description of those taken or knows anything about either offence or anyone who saw anything suspicious in Avon Road on Friday or Saturday to get in touch with us.”
Anyone with information should call the non emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
West Mercia Police is currently running a Darker Nights campaign to help people protect their property during the autumn and winter months. For more information log onto www.westmercia.police.uk/ and click on Darker Nights.
