POLICE have launched extra patrols in Long Sutton after cash, jewellery, a sat nav and a car were stolen in four burglaries within 72 hours. In one incident a 91-year-old man was the victim of a distraction burglary.

Story by: TOM JACKSON

POLICE have launched extra patrols in a Fenland town after cash, jewellery, a sat nav and a car were stolen in four burglaries within 72 hours.

In one incident a 91-year-old man was the victim of a distraction burglary, with thieves posing as gas workers.

The burglaries took place across Long Sutton between last Wednesday, January 6, and Saturday, January 9.

A police spokesman said: “We have an ongoing series of burglaries in Long Sutton and Spalding sector. Extra patrols are in force and an operation, including covert tactics, has been launched to tackle the issue.”

The 91-year-old was targeted at his home in Trafalgar Square at about 4.40pm on Friday, January 8.

A man who knocked at the door said he was from the gas board and that there was a possibility of an explosion. He claimed he needed to check the gas supply.

The thief entered the house and was followed by two other men who searched the home. They stole cash and a carriage clock.

A police spokesman said: “Residents are being warned to be on the lookout for people posing as utility company representatives, to always ask for ID and to check that ID by calling the companies before letting them into their homes.”

The first burglary took place in Garnsgate Road overnight on January 6-7. Thieves broke in through a UPVC door. The spokesman said: “It is thought they stole a number of small items.”

The following night thieves struck at a house in Back Lane. They entered the home through a ground floor window and stole cash, bank cards, a sat nav and jewellery.

Another home in Garnsgate Road was targeted between noon and 6.50pm on Saturday.

Thieves stole a set of car keys and then took a blue Ford Fiesta – registration R297YEW – which was parked outside.

CONTACT: Spalding police on 01775 722233.