POLICE in South Ayrshire have urged residents to review their home and business security after a spate of break-ins in Ayr and Troon.

The number of housebreakings is up in the area from the same time as last year, with 13 in August alone, as local police plea with communities to be more vigilant.

And officers are encouraging people to take simple steps to deter crooks from targetting their property.

Residents have been urged to ensure their property is secure by keeping their doors and windows locked, as well as ensure they make use of their alarm systems.

Chief Inspector Brian Anderson told the Advertiser: “I would like to encourage all of our residents and businesses to set aside some of their valuable time to consider their home and business security.

“In all of our busy lives it is sometimes bottom of our ‘to-do’ list because it is not always of concern but given that we are approaching the end of the summer I would like to ask everyone to take some time to review their security.

“We have had reports of housebreakings in Ayr and Troon and I have tasked one of our teams to look into these as a priority.”

PC Mark Wason, Safer Communities Officer added: “Sometimes the simplest of measures can act as the best deterrent against homes being broken into”.

“Residents should look at their gardens and in particular ensure that their perimeter fencing and gates are secure and that sheds are locked with valuables being property marked.

“I would like to stress the importance to our residents of making full use of their alarm systems. I appreciate that we can sometimes forget to activate them but I would ask that systems are used and maintained yearly to best protect your home.

“Residents and businesses can speak with their locality policing teams or myself for further information or advice.”