A SPATE of eight burglaries in two weeks has alarmed Minehead residents.

Police are currently investigating the crime spree, which has seen items stolen including jewellery, cash and electronic equipment from a range of properties.

The offenders modus operandi appears to be to smash a window in order to break in to the property.

A number of the incidents have taken place in Old Farm Road and the surrounding area.

Neighbourhood beat manager PC Joe Sanderson said: “We’re actively investigating eight burglaries which have occurred in Minehead in the past two weeks.

“In some of the incidents, items have been used by offenders to break a window and gain access.

“Items stolen have included jewellery, cash and electronic equipment.

“Neighbourhood Watch messages have been sent out to inform local residents and we’ve also carried out house-to-house enquiries in the area and distributed leaflets to appeal for witnesses and offer crime prevention advice.”

If anyone has information about the burglaries, they should call PC Sanderson on the neighbourhood team by calling 101.

One of the victims was West Somerset District Councillor Thomas Hall, who has been warning fellow residents to be vigilant.

“The thieves broke in while we were away, throwing a rock through one of the windows to gain entry,” he said.

“They stole a wristwatch which belonged to my wife’s father and dates back to the First World War, and my army medals from being a para in Egypt in 1956.

“Neither has a huge monetary value but they are of great sentimental value to us.”

Cllr Hall said he was also aware of a neighbour who had to cut his holiday in Italy short after finding out he had been burgled.

“I have been visiting my neighbours and just reminding them to leave lights on when they are away,” Cllr Hall added.