POLICE have warned householders to keep their doors locked after a spate of break-ins while residents were either asleep or watching TV.

A sneak thief entered a house in Shelley Drive, Baxenden, and crept past the resident who was asleep on the sofa and stole a handbag.

And in a separate incident a thief made off with a ladies' handbag after entering a house in Chatterton Drive, while the owners were sat watching television in their living room.

Sergeant Claire Holbrook, of Accrington Police, said: "We strongly advise all the residents to use a common sense approach to security, in particular by locking their front and back doors even when they're in the house to ensure burglars cannot sneak into the premises.

"There's nothing to suggest this offender is violent but we always recommend you call the police. Everyone should be extra vigilant."

Thieves also struck in Manchester Road the night before when they stole several items while the owners were out.

If you can help, contact the community beat managers' office on 0845 1253534.