Burglars targeted four homes during a six-hour period in St Albans yesterday (Wednesday), stealing jewellery and electronic equipment.

Between 12.45-6.15pm two houses on Ragged Hall and Tippendell Lanes were broken into.

After smashing a patio door at the Ragged Hall Lane address, between 4-6.15pm, thieves stole a gold ring containing five diamonds, a pair of diamond earrings, a gold and silver necklace, PlayStation 3 and a laptop.

An iPod was stolen from the Tippendell Lane address, which was broken into through a back window between 12.45-5.10pm.

A spokesman for Herts Police said that when the thieves attempted to break into another Ragged Hall home, through a window, they left empty-handed after triggering an alarm.

There was another attempted break-in on Watford Road, where burglars tried to enter through the back window while the resident was home, but soon left when disturbed.

The spokesman advised residents to be cautious and phone the police if they notice anyone acting in a suspicious manner.

He added: “This rang true with the incident on Watford Road, where the resident chose not to answer the door as they were not expecting a caller, but caught someone attempting to break-in through their back window.

“I would urge people to double check all doors and windows, even upstairs, are locked before you go out.”

The incidents on Ragged Hall Lane and Watford Road are believed to be linked.

If you have information on the burglaries please phone Herts Police on non-emergency number 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.