RESIDENTS are being asked to be vigilant after two quad bikes and a ride-on mower were stolen.

The first incident happened between 3pm and 3.30pm on Monday, March 10, in Trickses Lane, Ham Green, near Redditch, when offenders forced entry to a secure shed and stole a green Weed Eater ride on mower worth £1,500 and Husqvarna strimmer worth £200.

A neighbour reported seeing a green Ford Transit-type van on the grounds of the property around 3pm.

Between 4pm, also on March 10, and 11am the next day, in Foley Gardens, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove, access was forced to a secure garage and a green Yamaha quad bike registration number VU11 EYC was stolen. It was worth £5,500.

At around noon on the Monday two men in a van had pulled up outside the address and offered to cut the tree down in the rear garden.  At that time the victim was in his garage with the door open and took them to his garden to discuss the work before declining the offer.

There was also an incident in Fockbury lane, Dodford between noon and 5pm on Wednesday , March 12 when entry was gained to a secure barn and a Suzuki 250cc quad bike worth £1,600 was stolen.

At around 3pm a man visited the address and asked the victim if she wanted work doing on her trees, which she declined. He is described as white, aged 35 to 40, 5ft 9ins tall, of stocky build, with wavy thick dark hair, and wearing a black t-shirt.

PC Greg Moorman of West Mercia Police said: “We are looking into whether these incidents are linked, and in the meantime are asking residents, particularly those living in rural areas near Bromsgrove and Redditch, to be vigilant and to consider improving the security of outbuildings.

“We are also appealing to people to be on their guard if they are approached by anyone cold-calling and offering to do work for them, such as cutting down trees. If work really needs doing, it is best to ask friends, family or neighbours to recommend a reputable company, and make an appointment for someone to call round to give a quote at a convenient time.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should call t PC Moorman on the non-emergency number 101 or ring independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Crimestoppers can also be contacted via crimestoppers-uk.org

More information about home and garden security, including advice about rogue traders, is available at westmercia.police.uk.