COMMUNITY cops in Selkirk are warning householders to be on their guard following a recent crime spree.

Throughout November several houses were broken into, works vans raided and cars stolen.

One intruder at a property in West Port was even disturbed by the householder in the act of trying to steal electrical equipment.

And a vehicle was taken just a few yards from the town's police station in Scotts Place after the keys had been snatched from inside a house.

Community constable Conal McEwan said: "We are urging householders to lock all of their windows and doors - even when they are in the properties.

"People shouldn't leave their car keys out in view as car thefts are happening more and more with the keys being taken from the property first.

"These are opportunist thieves and they will take a chance if it presents itself. It is up to all of us not to give them the opportunities."

A total of 13 thefts were recorded in Selkirk during November.

And officers also received a report of an attempted break in at a house in the Shawburn area.

Nobody has yet been caught for the break-ins and vehicle thefts.

PC McEwan added: "We do have some good leads and are actively investigating all of the incidents.

"We live in a relatively safe area but every now and again you get these peaks of criminal activity - unfortunately we are seeing a peak just now."

A vehicle which was taken from outside a property in Marion Crescent last month was later found in a damaged condition in Viewpark.

During November police also received 63 calls relating to anti-social behaviour, which included 11 acts of intimidation and two hate crimes.

There was also six incidents of rowdy behaviour and seven incidents of hoax calls being made to emergency services.

Selkirk community council chairman Alistair Pattullo said: "It is a concern that so much crime has been committed and everyone should take precautions by locking their properties.

"To find an intruder in your home is a dangerous situation to be in."

Anyone who has any information regarding the housebreaking incidents and vehicle thefts should contact Police Scotland on 101.