PEOPLE in Blaenau Gwent are being told to keep their doors and windows locked following a spate of burglaries.

Over the past two weeks, 12 homes in Ebbw Vale, Tredegar and Brynmawr have been targeted by thieves and in nine cases, they managed to get in through an unlocked door or window.

In three of the burglaries, cars were also stolen after the keys were taken from inside.

Money, mobile phones, handbags and games consoles including a Nintendo Wii, have all be taken in the thefts.

Gwent Police is advising residents to take simple steps to keep their belongings safe and neighbourhood officers have leafleted homes in the area warning people to be vigilant.

Ebbw Vale and Tredegar neighbourhood Inspector, Tony Green, said: “Even if you’re in the house in the day, it’s a good idea to keep your doors locked. It’s also important that you keep your car keys in a safe place and out of sight."

Police are investigating the burglaries and have arrested one man in connection with them.