POLICE are warning residents to be vigilant after the heart of Beaconsfield was "hit hard" by a spate of thefts.

There have been 12 burglaries in Windsor End, London End, Aylesbury End and Wycombe End, since November 1. Police have hit back by stepping up foot patrols and sending letters to firms in the area but are urging residents to do their bit.

Sergeant Julian Heard, of Chiltern Vale police, said: "Due to the nature of the area, I would suspect that the offender operates on foot and would have to go down the alleys and passages at the rear of the premises.

"Any rate of crime is too high and this part of Beaconsfield seems to have been hit hard."

He added: "I would urge people to be vigilant about people they do not know and call the police as quickly as possible."

Beaconsfield town councillor Paul Henry (Lib Dem, South Ward), said he was concerned about the recent crime wave.

He said: "Although our burglary rate here in Beaconsfield is below the national average, we are increasingly being targeted by thieves.

"The implementation of the CCTV later this year should help police to track what is going on and should act as a deterrent to offenders.

"The work of the town council and the chamber of commerce will hopefully come to fruition and benefit the whole community.

"I am sure the police will catch this individual or individuals eventually."

Inspector Roger Doe, of Gerrards Cross police station, said: "Although this rate of burglaries is not high in relation to some towns, we do have concerns regarding the recent increase. We are taking steps to minimise these thefts but I would reinforce the fact that residents need to be vigilant. Since we implemented our new measures the rate of burglaries has decreased."

The Christmas period saw a further burglary as thieves broke into a house in Wycombe End at some time between December 25 and 27.

The burglars entered the property through the rear patio doors and stole a computer, a games console, jewellery and a stereo with a total value of £3,000.

Witnesses should call PC Gary Churchill on (01494) 465888