Police today appealed for witnesses after several sheds were broken into in Banbury.

Three sheds in the Hardwick area of the town were targeted some time between 5am and 11am on Boxing Day.

The first of these was in Lavender Close, where thieves smashed a padlock to enter the shed. Nothing was taken in this break-in, but damage was caused to the door and lock of the shed.

Thieves also forced their way into a shed at a property in Ferniston, smashing the lock before entering the shed and searching it. Once again, nothing was taken.

The third break-in at a property in The Cornellias saw thieves force their way into the shed before taking a pressure washer, hedge trimmer and a lawn mower.

PC Mike Welsh said: “We believe that a group of three youths, aged between 15 and 16 were responsible for these break-ins. All of the youths were white and one of them wore a distinctive light-coloured hooded top with horizontal stripes.

“If you saw these three youths, or you know who they are, then I would urge you to come forward and talk to us.

“I would also urge people to take precautions when storing high value items in their sheds. Only do so when absolutely necessary and if you do have to, ensure that you secure it as much as possible.

“Cover any items so that they cannot be seen through windows and make sure that all items are security marked. This will help police identify items should they be stolen, helping us return items to their rightful owners and helping to prosecute those who stole them.”

Anyone with any information regarding these break-ins should contact PC Welsh via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505, or alternatively contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.