Police are appealing for witnesses following a burglary in Regent Street, Lancaster at the weekend.

The incident happened on Sunday 14th August, between 3.30am and 4.10am. A man forced his way into a house and has searched various rooms before entering a bedroom upstairs. Once inside he turned the light on and disturbed the sleeping occupants. The offender then ran out and left the house taking various items with him.

Two laptops, jewellery, cash and an iPod were all stolen.

A further break in also occurred at some student accommodation just down the road and it may well be that the two incidents are linked.

The break-ins have prompted Regent Street residents to step up their security. “We are thinking about getting a more secure back door,” one told virtual-lancaster.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have information to come forward and contact police,” asked Detective Inspector Martin Pearson. “If anybody has been offered cheap goods, or saw something suspicious in the area to get in touch.”

• Anyone with information is asked to call Lancashire Police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.