‘Heartless’ burglars cause festive misery after spate of break-ins across Uttlesford on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Five took place in Stansted Mountfitchet, five in Clavering and one in Rickling Green.

Of those in Stansted Mountfitchet, four happened in Blythwood Gardens between 12.30pm on Christmas Day and 9am on Boxing Day.

Stolen items from these houses included a Kindle, Apple iPads, Apple ipods, Apple iPhone, jewellery, camcorder, money, Nikon camera and watches. Damage was also caused to windows and doors as burglars gained entry.

Also in Stansted Mountfitchet, a house in Hargrave Close was broken in to. It remains unclear at this stage as to what has been stolen.

Of those in Clavering, four happened in Barlee Close between 7am on December 23 and 5.15pm on December 27. Stolen from the properties were items including a horse cuddly toy, laptop computers, jewellery, school blazer, money, and a mobile phone. Damage was again caused to doors to gain entry.

Also in Clavering a house in Stortford Road was raided.

And in Rickling Green, a house in Green Road was broken in to between 1pm and 10.30pm on Christmas Day. Money, jewellery and watches were stolen and damage caused.

All but one of the burglaries were reported by the victims when they returned home.

Police are appealing for residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity as soon as possible to increase the chances of police catching them in the act.

Insp Colin Cox said: “Heartless burglars have caused misery at Christmas for a number of families living in our rural villages.

“We will be increasing our patrols in the areas which have been hit and investigating the circumstances to try and trace those responsible.

“I would ask residents to aware of any suspicious happenings in their area and report anything as soon as possible. Being rural and often remote we need the public to be our eyes and ears.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.