Investigation launched following string of burglaries and arsons

Just last weekend there were three burglaries with the intruders using crow bars to force open or smash windows according to police.

PC Matthew Butcher, from Garstang and Over Wyre police, said: “It has been a busy few days in the Garstang and Over Wyre areas with numerous incidents dealt with and many more now under investigation.

“Three incidents that stick out most are the house burglaries that have occurred in the Manor Road and Lancaster Road areas of Garstang. Three properties have been broken into between the hours of 3.45pm on Saturday, February 6 and 8pm on Sunday, February 7. Entry has been gained at the rear through the burglars forcing open UPVC windows with a crow bar or similar or simply smashing the glazed unit. Large quantities of jewellery have been taken along with toiletries, perfumes etc.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue has also notified the police that it has been called on a number of occasions over the last few nights to burning rubbish on the skate park by the side of the Sports Centre in Garstang.

Sgt Danielle Freaney also of Garstang and Over Wyre police, posted on the force’s Facebook to say: “The deliberate fires had been created using flyers and aerosol cans! Seriously how dangerous is that? Aerosol cans! Please, if you see anyone trying to set an unlawful fire on property not belonging to them and potentially putting themselves, you and others at risk, ring 999 and ask for the fire service and police!

It is a foolish act that should not be tolerated!”

Sgt Freaney went on to describe the various dangers and criminal implications of using aerosol cans to set fires, saying the cans could explode.

Police confirmed CCTV footage is being reviewed for both the arsons and the burglaries.

Anyone who thinks they know anything or has heard anything about any of the incidents is asked to call 101 or send an email to [email protected].