POLICE received a number of reports last night of a suspicious male in the Portsoy, Findochty and Newburgh areas of Erskine between the hours of 10pm and 11pm.

The male was captured on CCTV entering a number of properties- in order to steal - as well as trying to access a number of other properties around the area.

The suspect is described as 6ft tall wearing a dark jacket with a red shirt or jumper underneath, light coloured trousers and was carrying a mobile phone with the torch light on.

Officers attended, however the male was not identified and traced. Enquiries are continuing.

Inspector Allan O’Hare, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: “This would be a very distressing incident for people to find an intruder in their own homes.

"I would ask that any resident in this area who has CCTV, and has not already contacted police, to check their CCTV and see if they can assist in identifying this male.

“Officers are currently carrying out door to door enquiries and there will be additional patrols in the area this evening.

“I would ask again that all residents even whilst in their own homes make sure that doors and windows are locked to stop opportunist thieves like this from being successful.

“If you see anyone acting suspicious then call 999 immediately or if you have any information as to who may be responsible call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”