Police hunting thieves responsible for a series of burglaries in Lowestoft are again asking householders to protect their homes against break-ins.Although officers have made eight arrests for house burglary in the past week alone, Lowestoft has been targeted by burglars in recent months and there are steps which the public can take to protect their homes.

Police hunting thieves responsible for a series of burglaries in Lowestoft are again asking householders to protect their homes against break-ins.

Although officers have made eight arrests for house burglary in the past week alone, Lowestoft has been targeted by burglars in recent months and there are steps which the public can take to protect their homes.

Between December 23 last year and April 20, 169 burglaries and attempted break-ins were recorded around the town.

Crime reduction officer Bruce Granger said: 'The methods used by these burglars are not very subtle, often throwing a brick or similar through rear windows or patio doors to gain entry.'

His advice included:

Using high fences or gates to prevent access to the rear of properties

Removing all keys from doors and windows

Moving wheelie bins away from walls and fences so they cannot be used to aid climbing

Security marking valuable property, such as laptops, television, cameras and mobile phones.

Keeping valuable or sentimental jewellery and large amounts of cash hidden or not in the house.