THE recent spate of crimes in the area shows no sign of dying down.

A thief fired a catapult at a homeowner in Heckfield last week, when the resident disturbed him in the back garden. He then continued to fire the catapult in an attempt to damage the house.

The attack happened between 10.30pm–11pm on Wednesday, April 6. Police are appealing for more information.

And thieves have struck twice in Hartley Wintney over recent weeks.

The first break-in was over the Easter weekend on a construction site at the back of Greenfields Junior School in Green Lane. Three large gas cylinders were stolen.

In the most recent crime, thieves sawed through cast-iron bars to break into a garden shed near Hartley Wintney.

They took money and fishing equipment between 6-8.20pm on Tuesday, April 5.

Police are advising householders to lock tools and garden equipment in a shed or garage. They recommend marking all items with a postcode and photographing them for identification if they are recovered.

After the recent storm, they also urge that residents ensure garden fences are in good repair, to prevent unlawful access to property. Side gates should be locked to stop thieves getting into the rear of homes.

Anyone with further information about any of the incidents above can call the police on 101.