DETECTIVES are investigating four burglaries in Burnham, which are believed to be linked.

In each incident, the suspects forced open uPVC front doors.

A red Mazda SX5 was stolen from Chestnut Close sometime between 11pm on March 7 and 6.20am the following day after burglars broke into a house and stole the car keys.

They also took a silver Apple iPad, a handbag and cash.

Bank cards and a small amount of cash were stolen from a house in Glebe Way sometime between 10pm on March 7 and 6.30am the next day.

A blue Volkswagen Golf, wallet, mobile phone and bank cards were stolen from a home in West Ley sometime between 1.30am and 7am on March 8.

And two watches, a handbag containing cash and bank cards, and a mobile phone were taken from a home in The Leas sometime between midnight and 5am on March 8.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.

They would also like to hear from anyone who knows the whereabouts of the stolen cars and property, or has been offered similar items for sale recently.

Contact Dc Charlie Clark at Chelmsford CID on 101.

Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Residents are asked to be vigilant and double lock their uPVC doors.