TWO people have been arrested following a spike in burglaries and house break-ins around Ferndale Road.

Over the last two weeks, 10 houses have been broken into and police are appealing for anyone with information about the incidents to contact them as soon as possible.

The local policing team have stepped up visibility in the area, and will hold a street meeting next week to advise residents about home security and update them on the unusual spike in crime.

Sector head Insp Paul Hacker said: “Our most urgent concern at the moment is around Gorse Hill and Ferndale Road. Over the last two weeks, we have had 10 houses broken into in that area alone. That includes six in the Gorse Hill area, and four in the Ferndale Road area.

“Following these incidents, we have had the police community safety bus in the area for the benefit of residents.

“In the run up to Christmas, this kind of opportunistic crime will occur. On this particular occasion, we have had quite a severe spike in the number of house break ins, concentrated in one particular area, which is quite alarming.

“The good news is that compared to where we were last year, we are still 30 per cent down on house break ins overall. It is a real shame we have had this recent spike, which has been concentrated in one place.

“A couple of the homes were left uninsured, and some were even left unlocked. If people are doing the simple things and making sure their home is secured, that will help in preventing these kind of crimes.

“Another common feature is that keys have been left in the door locks, so more can be done to reduce the risks.”

Stacey McGarry, beat manager for Gorse Hill, will hold the street meeting next Wednesday.

“All across Gorse Hill, Ferndale and Rodbourne there has been a spate of break ins over the last couple of weeks,” she said.

“Two people have been arrested in connection with these incidents, and have now been bailed pending further inquiries.

“We are appealing for local residents to come forward if they have any information and to be extra vigilant with home security. It could be around the home or in their sheds and garages, as we have also seen those targeted in recent weeks.

“In the meantime the local policing team have stepped up patrols in the area and put plain clothes officers on night shifts to try to identify the offenders.

“On December 11 myself and a colleague will be at Crossroads in Gorse Hill with the marked police van. We will be holding a street meeting for any residents who have concerns to be able to come to us and ask questions.

“Crime overall is down, and it is very unlike this area to have such a spike.”

If you have any information about the burglaries contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.