POLICE are urging householders to lock their windows and doors following a spate of burglaries in North Yorkshire.

Burglars stole handbags, wallets, purses, a video camera and a PlayStation from two houses in Sowerby and two in Thirsk overnight on Tuesday - and in each case they entered via an unlocked door.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police, said: "Can we urge all householders to establish a nightly routine?

"Check and lock all doors front, back and patio and windows that could be used by a thief, and we advise you not to leave this until you go to bed.

"Make the house secure before you settle down in front of the telly or take a long relaxing bath upstairs."

Anyone who saw or heard suspicious activity in residential streets in Thirsk or Sowerby on Tuesday night, or early Wednesday morning, is asked to phone Northallerton CID on 01609 783131.

Updated: 09:31 Saturday, May 24, 2003