POLICE have renewed their warning to shed owners to take extra security measures after a series of thefts.

They say people often leave valuable items in garden sheds which are then left unlocked as an easy target for thieves.

In more than 20 break-ins across Blackburn over the last three weeks, valuable items such as lawnmowers, strimmers and mountain bikes have been stolen.

Police are urging people to lock away equipment and even buy special burglar alarms for sheds.

Blackburn Police plan a series of special patrols by plain clothes and uniform officers.

Targeted areas will include Blackamoor Road and Roe Lee where plain clothed police will be on the streets.

Det Sgt Paul Broxson, of Blackburn CID, said: "Very often valuable equipment is kept in sheds and people can easily help themselves avoid a break-in by padlocking shed doors or buying an alarm from DIY stores."

Anyone with information about shed break-ins should call Blackburn CID on 01254 353569 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.