Burglars stole cash from a home on Cell Barnes Lane in St Albans on Friday.

Between 7pm and 8pm, the offender forced a rear door open after unsuccessfully trying to open the front door.

PCSO Oliver Jackson said: “As winter approaches with darkness coming earlier I would ask residents to ensure that all doors and windows are locked if they leave the house.

“Also try to give your house a lived-in look by leaving some lights on if you are going to be out.”

Anyone with any information on the burglary can contact police via 101, quoting reference number F1/17/4799.