POLICE are warning residents to be vigilant and refrain from creating opportunities for criminals during this festive season.

Unsecured cars and homes are proving to be a chance for thieves to strike, as demonstrated in a double spate of break-ins on Tuesday.

One of the incidents in Renfrew saw an unlocked car robbed, with stolen items totalling to a value of around £400.

The car parked on Nethergreen Wynd was full of tools, work wear and a laptop, which the thieves swiped at around 12.45am.

Inspector Cassie Glass said: “A man in dark clothing was seen carrying a bag away full of the items, including a laptop, hard hat and a quantity of tools.

“The brand new black Audi Saloon had been left insecure which gave the person the opportunity to steal without being detected.

“At this time of the year, people will start taking advantage of unlocked properties, particularly as some people hide Christmas presents in their cars, or have gifts in full view under their tree.

“We will be increasing patrols in the area and would like to stress the importance of keeping cars and houses secured.”

On the same day at Station Road in Kilbarchan, a resident was disturbed while they were sleeping.

Their dog began barking and growling at around 4am and when they went down to check, they realised that the back door was wide open.

Intruders managed to gain access as the door had not been locked however their pet managed to scare away the would-be thieves.