A MAN from Malvern has been arrested in connection with two burglaries in Eckington and Kempsey on the same day thanks to quick thinking villagers.

The burglary in Eckington, near Pershore, took place on Thursday, May 1 sometime between 8.30am to 3.30pm when someone broke into a house through the rear entrance.

The house was searched but nothing was taken.

A further break in happened in Old Road North, in Kempsey, between noon and 2.30pm on the same day when someone broke into a house through the back door causing £500 of damage.

Thieves searched the property and made off with jewellery worth more than £2,500.

The man arrested in connection with both burglaries has been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

A number of witnesses came forward with information about both offences that proved vital to the investigations.

Sergeant Liz Warner, of Worcester police, said: “We would like to thank those members of the public who saw, what they believed, was suspicious behaviour and provided vital help with our inquiries.

“We want to stress the importance of vigilance and if anyone sees any suspicious behaviour in their community we urge them to contact the police immediately.

"Prompt action can make a huge difference when trying to trace those responsible for crimes.”

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call Sgt Warner on the non emergency number 101 quoting incident number 404s 010514 (Eckington) and 351s 010514 (Kempsey).