TOOLS and ladders were stolen after burglars broke into a Basingstoke garage block this week.

Police say the incident happened over a 24-hour period between Monday and Tuesday.

The culprits, who had arrived in a white transit van, broken into four garages from a garage block in Borodin Close and stole tools, ladders and other items.

A second incident took place on the Tuesday. This time a house in Dankworth Road was broken into.

The burglars gained access by forcing the corner of a UPVC panel in the rear door and then opening the door with a key.

Fortunately nothing was taken.

Officers have now released the following advice in a bid to help prevent further crimes:

- Never leave your garage or shed unlocked.

- Use a garage door lock in unison with a quality lock and chain secured with a ground anchor.

- Use a garage door stop

- Lock everything away securely, tools can be locked away in a locker or box secured with a chain

- Secure your bike to the ground with a ground anchor

- And don’t forget to check your insurance covers the contents of your shed, outbuildings or garage