Police are stepping up patrols after it has been revealed there have now been 43 burglaries in North Herts this month in residential and business properties – including break-ins in Whitwell, Ickleford, Preston, Codicote, Hitchin and Letchworth.

The Comet: Police are looking for this man in connection with a spate of burlgaries in North HertsPolice are looking for this man in connection with a spate of burlgaries in North Herts (Image: Archant)

The running total for February has seen another spike in offences after the Comet reported there had already been 29 North Herts break-ins by February 21.

Officers are reissuing CCTV footage of people they wish to talk to in connection with the offences which have occurred mainly between 7pm and 7.30pm with offenders forcing entry to the properties by smashing windows and doors.

A small, dark-coloured vehicle and a red car were seen near the scene of a burglary in Codicote on February 17.

Chief Inspector for North Herts, Julie Wheatley said: “In comparison to other areas in the county 43 burglaries is a low amount.

The Comet: Police want to speak to this man in connection with burglaries in North Herts.Police want to speak to this man in connection with burglaries in North Herts. (Image: Archant)

“However any number of burglaries is too much for us and it is unusual to have a concentration of crimes around the western area of North Herts.

“I’d like reassure people these crimes are being fully investigated and we have increased patrols in response to them.

“I would like to ask for help from the public in reporting any suspicious vehicles or activity.

“It’s crucial people contact us straight away if they think they might recognise the men in the CCTV images as they may be able to help with our enquiries.

The Comet: Police want to speak to this man in connection with North Hert burglaries.Police want to speak to this man in connection with North Hert burglaries. (Image: Archant)

“Also please get in touch immediately if you see anyone acting suspiciously, particularly around their neighbours’ properties.

“It may seem small or insignificant but we would rather attend to check it out and it turn out to be nothing than miss an opportunity to catch an offender – and please note down descriptions of people or vehicles, including registration numbers.

“If you see anything out of the ordinary and you believe a crime could be in progress then please call police immediately via 999.”