The hunt is on to find the people responsible for the latest in a series of burglaries and attempted burglaries across the district.

Four homes in Radlett were targeted between November 19-27; two of which were burgled and the other two subject to attempted burglaries. Police believe these incidents are linked.

This comes after a 34 per cent rise in the number of burglaries across the district compared to the same period last year (October-November).

In two of the burglaries a woman knocked on the door of a property and gave a random name asking if this person is in.

While the homeowners were distracted, three men then entered the rear of the garden and force or attempted to force their way into the property.

A home in Newberries Avenue was the first targeted, where jewellery, cash and a wrist watch were stolen between 1.45 pm and 3.45pm on Wednesday (18).

The second burglary took place in Aldenham Avenue between 12pm and 1.50pm on Thursday (26) and jewellery was stolen.

The first attempted burglary happened in Watling Knoll on Tuesday (17) between 8.30am and 6.30pm. Damage was caused to the property.

Damage was caused to the door frame in the second attempted burglary, which occurred in Common Lane on Tuesday (24) between 6.30pm and 7pm.

The suspects have been described as a white woman, with dark hair, 5ft 5ins tall and of slim build. She was reported to be wearing a blue and white headscarf, black clothing and has been seen carrying shopping bags.

The first man is described as white, of slim to medium build, with dark hair and 5ft 8ins tall. He was reported to be wearing a dark blue hooded top with white piping and dark trousers.

The second man is described as white and of slim to medium build with dark hair. He was reported to be wearing a dark green /grey hooded top with black puma baseball cap.

The third man was described as being of medium/heavy build, with dark hair and around, 5ft 10ins tall. He was reported to be wearing a dark green / grey hooded top, dark slim jeans, black slip on shoes and carrying a black rucksack.

Police are appealing for witnesses and information about the incidents. Investigating officer Det Con Michael Simpson said: “I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen anyone in the local area matching the descriptions.

“They are suspected to be using trains to travel to Radlett, so they may be seen walking to or from the station carrying bags. If you recognise the people described, or have witnessed the burglaries or if you have any information please get in contact as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Simpson via the non-emergency number 101. In an emergency dial 999.