Cross-border burglars target rural villages near Selby as four houses are broken into on one day

North Yorkshire Police are increasing patrols in villages within the Selby district following a spate of reported burglaries. On Monday, officers were deployed to Hillam.

Last Friday, two homes were broken into in Biggin, one in Sherburn-in-Elmet and one in Hambleton. A grey VW Golf that was linked to the burglaries was found abandoned in West Yorkshire on Sunday after it failed to stop for police. This vehicle has now been recovered by West Yorkshire Police and enquiries are taking place.

The offenders are generally attempting to use exterior doors and windows to gain entry.

Sergeant Robert Campbell of the Selby District Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“I am aware that residents who live in rural villages in the Selby district may be alarmed following an increase in burglaries. I want to reassure residents in these villages that we’re carrying out increased patrols day and night to try and intercept the criminals who are responsible. I am also aware that our colleagues in neighbouring forces have also seen an increase in incidents reported of a similar nature from villages near to or just over the border, we are actively linking in with South Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Police to help build intelligence.

"I would urge residents to think about their home security and steps they can take to help deter criminals away from their property. I would also encourage anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity to report this immediately to police on 999".