AN investigation is underway after six thefts in just over a month in a village near Winchester.

Bicycles and gardening equipment worth more than £2,500 were stolen from garages and sheds in Kings Worthy between February 23 and April 3.

In Mortimer Close a bright yellow French-style road bike worth £1,000 was taken from a wooden garden shed. It happened between March 29 and April 2, and a Honda Tiller worth up to £400 was also stolen.

In the same street a hedge trimmer worth £1,000 was taken from a detached garage between February 23 and April 2.

A leaf blower and power washer were stolen after offenders forced entry into a detached garage in The Woodlands between April 2 and 3.

Overnight on the same dates a garage was broken into in Mount Pleasant, and there were two non-dwelling attempted break-ins.

Hampshire Constabulary’s crime prevention team said garden crime is becoming more common.

“Many people take a great deal of trouble securing their home and property while at the same time leaving valuable garden tools and cycles in a shed that is either unlocked or not maintained.”

A police spokeswoman added: “Unfortunately at this time, we have no further lines of enquiries. We are appealing for any witnesses. If any members of the public saw or heard anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time the offences were committed we are urging them to phone 101 to assist in our investigations.”

To leave information anonymously call the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.