Extra uniformed and plain clothes police have been put in place in the north of Hillingdon borough after a spike in household burglaries.

Six burglaries were reported on Thursday December 17, with two in South Ruislip and one in Cavendish ward, Ruislip Manor , Eastcote and Northwood Hills .

Insp. Rob Bryan, Neighbourhood Inspector for Hillingdon North, warned residents of the dangers and reassured the public that police are tackling the problem.

He said: "We are seeing an increase in burglaries in the run up to Christmas. Most distressing for those affected is that the thieves are stealing presents.

"The thieves will target any vulnerability - recently a ladder was taking from one garden and used on a house next door to access a small first floor window that was slightly ajar."

Police patrols will continue across Hillingdon to disrupt and catch the burglars and a number of other police tactics are already in place.

Insp Bryan added: "Our Burglary Squad continue to target persons of interest to further disrupt. Please think about your home security this winter. Double lock front doors, close and lock windows and put lights on timer switches when out.

"Help your neighbours by securing garden tools and if you know they are away and hear noises, always call police. If you see suspicious people in your road, call us so we can check it out."

To report any suspicious activity, call police on 101 and dial 999 in an emergency.