BURGLARS stole property worth £1,700 from a house in Queensway, Banbury.

Thieves stole a palmtop computer, a PlayStation, a camera and number of items of jewellery.

PC Mike Welch, of Banbury police, said: "This burglary happened while the occupiers were out all day and was discovered when they returned home at 5.45pm yesterday.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to remind residents they need to make sure their properties are as secure as possible, especially if you are out for most of the day and even more so as the nights draw in.

"If are going out during the day and come back after dark, leave a light on or ideally use a timer switch so it looks as if someone is in. "Burglars always go for the easy option. If your house is in dark in the evening, it's a giveaway to burglars that nobody is in."

November traditionally sees an increase in burglaries in all areas of Thames Valley with darker evenings and as people starting to store presents in the run up to Christmas.

PC Welch added: "Can I also appeal for anyone who saw people acting suspiciously in the Queensway area to come forward. We all need to look out for our neighbours while they are not around and add to our collective security.

If you want to contact PC Welch, or would like crime prevention advice, you can contact the police enquiry centre on 0845 8 505 505.