POWER tools have been stolen from a shed in Tadley after offenders broke down a fence and gained entry to the garden of a property.

It happened at a property in Meon Close in Tadley.

The thieves also attempted to gain entry to a garden shed at a property in Gorselands, but they were unsuccessful and left empty-handed.

The incidents happened at some time overnight between Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23.

Police officers are now appealing for information and issuing crime prevention advice after the incidents targeting sheds.

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The men police want to speak to are described as white, aged 18 to 25, and of skinny to medium build.

One was seen wearing a tracksuit and puffer coat.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police online or on 101 quoting 44240122940. 

To help protect your property, police offer the following advice:

Think like a thief: 

Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in. It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws. Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable. If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills. And keep it locked at all times.

Alarm it

Consider a battery-operated shed alarm. They look low key but they respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.

Lock it, hide it or mark it

Don’t give them the opportunity or the tools to commit a crime. Lock everything away securely. Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain.

Secure your bike to the ground or a lockable stand within a locked shed or garage. Visit Sold Secure to search for ground anchors and other locks designed to fix to floors and walls.

It’s always worth draping an old sheet or blanket over the top of mowers or bikes to keep them covered from view.

Although it might sound like stating the obvious, never leave your garage or shed door unlocked if you’re not around.

Property marking your items is advisable and some tools can be painted with your name or postcode. Forensic marking is also an option.

A locksmith belonging to the Master Locksmiths Association can advise you on the most secure shed and garage door security. They can also help you install it. Most also provide full home security surveys.