HOMEOWNERS in Rossendale are being warned about a gang of "hook and eye" thieves who are on the prowl in the area.
Police are urging residents to step-up security after three houses were targeted by thieves who use a hook and cane to retrieve property through the letter box.
The latest incident happened sometime between 11pm on Wednesday and 7.30am on Thursday at a home in Springwood Street, Ramsbottom.
Offenders took a set of house keys after reaching in through the letter box to steal a mobile phone worth £200.
The thieves used the keys to make off in the owners Mercedes 220 worth £2,500.
PC John Flowers said: "I would urge people to take their keys upstairs, it's a simple crime prevention method but it works."
Anybody with information is asked to contact Ramsbottom CID on 0161 856 8079 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article