St Neots Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant Over Bank Holiday Weekend

Police are urging residents in St Neots and the surrounding area to take extra care securing their homes this bank holiday weekend, following a sharp rise in burglaries during the same week last year.

Across Cambridgeshire, 54 burglaries were reported during the late May bank holiday in 2024 – one of the highest spikes of the year. While some homes were broken into, many incidents involved opportunist thieves taking advantage of open windows, unlocked doors, or valuables left in plain sight.

Police are sharing advice with local residents ahead of the long weekend, especially as many households plan trips away or time outdoors. Here’s how you can help protect your home:

• Keep windows closed when you’re not in the room and always lock doors

• Avoid leaving phones, tablets, or handbags in view

• If you're going away, don’t advertise it on social media

• Use timers on lights to make your home look occupied

• Install a video doorbell, security camera, or alarm if you can

• Lock sheds and outbuildings – tools and bikes are common targets

Detective Sergeant Justin Parr from the Cambridgeshire Acquisitive Crime Team said:

“Thieves will look for any opportunity to steal from homes, so we’re asking people to remain extra vigilant.
If you’re heading out – whether it’s for a few hours in the garden or a weekend away – take a moment to check that everything’s secure.
We know many burglars are opportunists, and even a small oversight can give them the chance they’re looking for.”

The police say they have dedicated teams focused on tackling burglary and bringing offenders to justice, and urge anyone who sees something suspicious to report it immediately.