POLICE are set to increase patrols in Clacton town centre after burglars targeted a series of estate agents and shops.

Crooks have targeted a number of estate agents in Clacton, including Mike Vincent and Son and Bond Estates, over the past three weeks.

Cafes and shops in the town have also been targeted.

The crooks used a brick to smash their way through the front door of Mike Vincent, in Station Road, on April 9.

They caused damage to a desk before fleeing with cash and a camera.

Bond Estates, in Station Road, was also targeted but burglars left empty-handed after being disturbed by an alarm.

Inspector Julia Finch, of Clacton police, said: “The area is covered by CCTV, so we are working with Tendring Council to look at ways to improve CCTV monitoring for this area and we have got meetings planned on town centre.

“We do usually have patrols in this area, but we will be stepping up those patrols.

“These incidents are under investigation by officers, who are also reviewing CCTV images.”

Insp Finch said burglars had also stolen cash from Nonnees Cafe, in Pallister Road, on April 4 and a shop in Jackson Road had been targeted on April 16.

Anyone with information about the burglaries is asked to call Clacton police on 101.