An appeal has been launched after a spate of burglaries in the Cotswolds.

Offenders had forcefully gained entry into two homes in Oddington and Moreton last month.

In Oddington, thieves had entered through a downstairs window at the home and stole power tools worth £3,500.

The incident took place between 4pm on January 23 and 7.15am on January 24.

Another home in Varsity Close, Moreton, had its front door handle and lock smashed between midnight and 7.30am on January 26.

It is thought the offenders were disturbed as they were searching the property and left with a white hand towel.

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Police said: "Officers are asking anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in Oddington or Moreton-In-Marsh or who may have CCTV or doorbell footage to get in touch.

"Information can be provided to police online by completing a form and quoting incident 72 of January 24."

Residents are advised to close and lock all windows and doors even if they leave the house for a few minutes.

If any cold callers come to the property, they should be carrying ID and if in doubt residents can check this to see if the caller is genuine. 

In Stow,  there were nine reported thefts and three reported isolated violent crimes between November 28 and January 20, according to Gloucestershire Police.

This is a rise in five thefts over the Christmas period compared to the summer and autumn months which saw four thefts.