RAIDERS smashed their way into two homes and stole jewellery on the same day.

Last Tuesday, two houses in Redshank Drive and Lawling Avenue, Heybridge, were targeted.

Police said in both cases, a window had been smashed and jewellery taken by the burglars.

Essex Police said through the Essex Community Messaging service: “There have been two residential burglaries this week in Redshank Drive and Lawling Avenue.

“Both were on Tuesday 16th and during the day.

“On both occasions either a side or rear window was smashed and a search conducted with jewellery being the target.

“If you live in these areas please take measures to secure any jewellery.

“If you are in during the day, please keep an eye out for what is likely to be a single male on foot who may be acting suspiciously.

“If you answer the door during the day and are asked a strange question which doesn’t sit right with you — this is likely to be our burglar checking to see if you are in — please call 999 immediately and report this.”

Residents of Lawling Avenue were shocked at the news.

Sally Meredith said: “It’s unnerving to have a member, or members of the public prowling around your own road snooping inside your house just to grab some jewellery.

“Obviously, police and authorities can’t patrol all roads like ours, but it seems criminals are getting more and more ballsy these days.”

Jason Bridgeford, who has lived in the area for more than ten years, said some shady characters can come from rented properties.

Mark Pierce said: “It goes without saying that you need to feel sympathy for anyone who suffers break-ins.

“In this day and age criminals are far more forward with what they do and the means they’ll go to.”

Call 101 with information.