Police issue warning over burglaries

POLICE today warned residents to be on their guard against housebreakers after 29 break-ins were committed across West Lothian in less than two weeks.

A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with several of the incidents.

Eight homes in Livingston and one in Mid Calder were targeted by opportunist thieves who hit unlocked properties between January 14 and 18.

Another 16 addresses in Livingston, three in the Pumpherston/Uphall station area, and one in Mid Calder were broken into between January 6 and 18.

Inspector Stephen Elliot said: "If they are determined, thieves will always force their way in to buildings, but there are some simple steps that can be taken to deter them.

"Always keep doors and windows locked, consider fitting a burglar alarm, and consider using timer plugs to make the property look occupied when it's not."