Don't make burglary child's play

Cash up or lose out, this is the message being sent out to businesses and residents in the Heywood and Middleton area following break-ins at children’s nurseries.

In the last month there has been eight burglaries at five different nurseries, raising security concerns within the community.

Of the incidents being investigated by police, four were in the Middleton town centre area, three around Middleton junction and one near Heywood town centre.

Brian Farr, crime reduction advisor for GMP’s Rochdale division, said: “In half of the reported cases nothing was taken from the nurseries but in the rest of the cases items such as, a computer, TV, DVD player, cash and a safe as well as a Dyson vacuum cleaner were stolen.

“I believe that those that had taken the items were looking for cash which is why I would recommend that everyone follow a few safety tips that can lead them to a safer and crime free New Year.”

He has also issued the following crime prevention advice:

• Make sure that doors and windows are secure and make sure that they are closing properly. 
• Get a good quality lock for your windows and doors and make sure you use them. 
• If your business has an alarm – USE IT.
• Make sure all cash is banked regularly but avoid creating a pattern.