MONEY, electrical items and Christmas presents were stolen in two burglaries in Kidderminster.

Both incidents saw burglars gaining access to the properties through an unsecured door.

The first burglary happened on Saturday, November 16, in Bronte Drive between 2am and 6am.

Occupants accidentally left a rear sliding patio door unlocked, which had not not been used since the summer.

A 32-inch Sony TV worth £299 and a £278 Toshiba laptop were stolen.

A second burglary took place in Offmore Road at about 6am on Saturday.

Access had been gained through the front door, which is not generally used and had been left unsecured.

Two handbags were taken along with a Primark paper carrier bag containing clothing including a duffle coat, boxer shorts and belt, which had been bought as Christmas presents, and £300 cash.

Detective Constable Lloyd Davies of West Mercia Police said: “Both of these burglaries could probably have been prevented, as offenders are opportunists and much prefer to simply open a door and walk in to a house, rather than breaking in.

“We warn householders not to leave doors and windows open in the summer, and we are reminding them to check that doors and windows they rarely use are locked and secure over winter too.”

Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact DC Davies on the non-emergency number 101 quoting incident 171-s-301113 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.