SHOPKEEPERS in York are being warned about a spate of burglaries.

In the past week, burglars have targeted six businesses at night, and a further five businesses have fallen victim to thefts during the day.

The premises have mainly been involved in the catering industry.

The latest burglary occurred at Thomas the Bakers, in King's Square, at 5.30am today. A delivery van driver disturbed the burglar, but he escaped. A man was later arrested .

Another man was also arrested this morning in relation to a burglary at John Bull's Toffee shop, in Minster Gate, last night.

Two sandwich shops, Al Fresco, in Coppergate, and O'Briens, in Ousegate, have also been targeted by burglars, along with a bakery in Shambles. The intruders entered O'Brien's by throwing a piece of concrete through the window, and the windows of Al Fresco and the bakery were also broken.

Hearth and Homes in Piccadilly, York, was broken into last Tuesday night.

In most cases, small amounts of cash were stolen.

Sgt Colin Ventress said: "Businesses should be aware of this and make sure their premises are secure."

Updated: 14:38 Tuesday, September 09, 2003