FREE alarms are being offered to borough anglers to help prevent shed break-ins and the theft of fishing equipment.

Police in Brockmoor and Pensnett have linked up with Black Country Tackle in Brockmoor to offer the alarms and security tips to customers buying high value goods.

Officers have also been visiting the homes of previous shed burglary victims to make sure their homes and gardens are secure as the warmer weather arrives.

Pc Natalie Taylor, from the Brockmoor and Pensnett team, said: “Historically this area in particular has seen more shed burglaries over the summer period, and so our team is trying various initiatives, like the free alarms, to try and prevent similar offences this summer.

“Typically the types of things stolen are high value, often including garden tools and fishing tackle.”

Anyone with information about thefts or burglaries in the area is urged to call Dudley Police on 0345 113 5000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.