BURLGARS have targeted a number of homes in North Yorkshire in the past week.

There was an attempted break-in last Friday, at a house in Holray Park, Carlton, between 10.30am and 2.30pm. The would-be thieves smashed a rear window but left empty-handed. Police said this was probably due to the property’s alarm going off.

The second attempted break-in took place on Monday at a house in Hall Farm Close, Riccall, between 10.55am and 11.10am.

Police said the householder heard noise downstairs, went to investigate, and found two people trying to break in through the kitchen door. They ran away as the householder phoned police.

On the same day, between 10am and 4pm, burglars broke into a house in Brow Bridge View, Tadcaster, through a side door to gain access to the kitchen. They stole cash, a laptop computer, and jewellery.

Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Andrea Kell, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Being a victim of crime at this time of year can really ruin your Christmas, especially if all the presents you have bought for your family and friends are stolen.”