HOMEOWNERS are being warned to lock windows when leaving their home following a burglary in Harwich.

Detectives are appealing for information following a break-in at a home in Fernlea Road, between 3pm and 4.30pm on Saturday.

They crooks gained entry via a window that had been left open before stealing a purse and a DVD boxset.

Investigating officer, Det Con Linda Whiting, said: "Following our house-to-house enquiries, we’re keen to identify two young men who were seen in the area on Saturday tea-time.

“We’re hoping that, with the good descriptions, either they will come forward so that we can potentially eliminate them from our enquiries or someone will know who they are and contact us with their names.”

One of the men walks with a limp, has mousey hair and was dressed in blue and grey while the other man was dressed in red and walked into the alley leading to the rear of the property.

Both men were then seen to walk off in separate directions.

Det Con Whiting added: "It really is important for people to close and lock their windows and doors whether they are inside or outside and regardless of whether they are just nipping out for a few minutes.”

Anyone with information about the burglary is urged to contact detectives at Clacton police station on 101.