Fishing equipment, tools and musical instruments were stolen in a spate of shed burglaries.

Residents reported a series of thefts from properties in Great Saling on the night of Monday, February 3.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating a series of shed burglaries which happened in a street in Great Saling.

“Officers received reports four sheds in Grove Villas had been broken into after padlocks were forced and doors jimmied open.

“The items stolen included musical instruments, fishing equipment and tools worth a four figure sum.

“Police would like to hear from anyone who noticed any suspicious activity between 5pm last Monday and 1.20pm last Tuesday.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Braintree police station on 101.