Lock your gates and park close to walls, police urge, as fuel thefts are bound to increase in winter.

The constabulary released the warning to residents and businesses along with advice on how to prevent their cars, homes, farms, construction sites and offices from being targeted by thieves.

It suggests having lighting timers as hours of darkness increase and empty houses and businesses are easier to spot in these conditions.

Doors, windows, side gates and sheds should be locked with keys removed from the area in order to stop thieves entering.

The constabulary also urged residents to make vehicle fuel tanks difficult to access when parked.

Use walls, hedges and other vehicles to conceal fuel caps.

’Check your fuel tanks regularly, both vehicle, commercial and domestic heating oil,’ the police also warned.

Call police headquarters on 631212 if you have been a victim.