A 46-year-old woman found her home burgled and jewellery worth thousands of pounds missing after popping out for a couple of hours of shopping. When she returned to her home in Arragon Road, East Ham, her front door had been forced open and the door lock damaged. Items stolen included four gold necklaces and gold bangles worth around £3,500.

Crime prevention Design Advisor, PC Andy Whitfield, said: “Newham police is committed to reducing burglary through effective crime prevention and by bringing to justice those responsible. Many of the suggestions are simple and quick; for example, give your home a lived-in look by installing timer switches to lamps and always remember to lock PVCu doors by turning the key and lifting the handle. Your front door is the primary route of entry and exit into a house. Close all your windows when you go out and make sure tools are secured in sheds and garages to avoid them being used by burglars to gain entry to homes. Use strong locks on sheds and garages to protect your garden equipment, bikes and other valuables. Help us keep your home and property secure by following our burglary prevention advice.”