RESIDENTS are being urged to step up garage security following a spate of burglaries in Woodford Green and Ilford.

Seven burglaries occurred during the first two weeks of the month in lock-up garages in Snakes Lane West, Woodford Green and Laing Close, Ilford.

Thieves targeted a number of garages in Laing Close, making off with tools, cleaning materials and even house bricks. They also stole cleaning materials from a garage in Snakes Lane West at around 3am last Thursday.

An Ilford police spokeswoman said: "Residents should ensure their garages are securely locked at all times and step up security if they have valuable or expensive items inside."