Alert over burglaries in Doncaster village

Concerns have been raised after a number of break-ins in Sprotbrough, with police looking to take action to stem the problem.

Insp Adrian Luscombe, the neighbourhood inspector for Doncaster West, which includes the village, said: “We have seen a rise in burglaries in Sprotbrough. We are putting extra patrols on in that area at present as a result.

“We’re also looking at implementing Smartwater there in the next few weeks or so, which would be targeted at the main hotspots.”

Officers have already seen some success in dealing with the problem.

One incident in nearby Scawsby saw two cars stolen in a so called ‘two in one’ burglary, where thieves break into a property to steal the keys to cars.

The burglary happened on Thursday October 29, on Town View Avenue. But five days later, on Tuesday, November 3, police arrested a suspected, who has since been charged with the raid.

Officers also detained a man who was found hiding in bushes near Montagu Road, Sprotbrough after reports of people trying doors in the area. He was found to be wanted from a previous burglary.

Insp Luscombe said officers would look to roll out Smartwater in a similar way to how it had been brought in in other areas of Doncaster, including Balby.

Smartwater is a liquid that can be applied to items in a property that carries a unique chemical code that can link the item back to the house if it is stolen.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.