The property in Gatcombe Gardens was entered through an insecure window between about 4am and 5am on Tuesday.

Several handbags were taken, along with the keys to a black BMW, which was then stolen from the front driveway of the address. The bags and their contents were left strewn on the ground.

Shortly afterwards, the same offenders are believed to have attempted to break into another house a short distance away in Cabin Lane but were disturbed by the homeowner and made off empty handed.

Up to three offenders, all wearing dark clothing, drove off in the stolen BMW, which was found by police abandoned and insecure further along the street.

Police Constable Mark Roberts, who is investigating both crimes, appealed for anyone who might have witnessed suspicious activity in the area during the early hours of that morning to contact police by calling 101.

Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

He also reminded people of simple measures they could take to ensure their homes were not an easy target for burglars.

“Keep doors locked and never leave accessible windows open or insecure if you are not in the room, even if you only leave for a moment,” he said.

“Valuable items such as purses, handbags and car keys should be kept hidden out of sight and well away from potential access points such as windows and letterboxes.

“Additionally, ladders, tools or anything else which could be used by thieves to gain access to your home should never be left out in the garden.”