RESIDENTS are being urged to lock their doors following a spate of break-ins in and around Johnstone.

As the nights get darker, police are encouraging people to lock windows, doors and back gates when they are both in and out their homes.

This comes after a spate of break-ins in the Johnstone and Kilbarchan area.

Inspector Cassie Glass, who is based at Johnstone Police Station said: "A house in Fordbank Drive in Kilbarchan was targeted overnight.

"Thieves managed get in through an unsecure rear door at some point between Friday, October 6 and Saturday, October 7.

"They took an ASUS laptop which is valued at around £800.

"This serves as a reminder to residents to keep doors and windows secure as thieves are looking for easy options to get in.

"With the nights getting darker, thieves will find opportunities to strike."

There are also reports that properties have been targeted near the former St Cuthbert's High School in Johnstone.

One of the homeowners is said to have been in their house at the time of the break-in this week.

Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious should call police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.