Thieves looking for expensive garden equipment are targeting sheds and garages.

Three sheds in Grange Avenue, Mayland, were broken into at 2am on December 11 but nothing was stolen, and attempts were made to get into an outbuilding in Steeple Road, also in the village, between December 9 and December 11.

Sgt Rob Walker, of Maldon neighbourhood crime team, said: “I believe people are looking for high value garden equipment like ride-on lawnmowers and expensive tools.”

Advice includes installing an alarm and fitting a wire cage or lockable box to the floor inside the shed to lock expensive items away.

Thieves have also been know to lift sheds to get inside, so it is advised to make sure they are firmly anchored to the ground.