WHITCHURCH police are appealing for witnesses after cash and a handbag were stolen from a house in St Mary Bourne. The burglary happenedsome time between 10.30pm on Tuesday 6 January and 6am the following morning.

Entry was gained through a rear door at the property. The cash and handbag were stolen from the kitchen area.

Investigating officer Pc Richard Baldwin said: "If anybody saw someone acting suspiciously around the St Mary Bourne area we would urge them to contact us.

"We would also remind people to make sure they take all the security measures they can to prevent becoming a victim of crime.

"Make sure your house is secure when unattended, locking all your windows and doors when going out.

"It is also a good idea to secure the house when you have gone to bed to prevent opportunistic criminals."

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Whitchurch police on 0845 045 45 45 or, alternatively they can call anonymously on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.