FIFTEEN outbuildings have been broken into in the Purbeck area in the last two months.

Police are investigating after two sheds and two metals storage units were broken into at Holton Lee sometime between 5pm on Friday, January 27, and 9am on Monday, January 30.

Nothing was stolen.

A second incident happened between 8pm on Sunday, January 29, and 5pm on Monday, January 30, when a container at Sandford Holiday Park in Poole was broken into. Two Stihl hedge trimmers, two leaf blowers, a chainsaw, and other items were stolen.

Overnight on Monday, January 20, a storage container was broken into in Wareham Road. The incident was discovered at 8am the following morning. Nothing was stolen.

Officers are also investigating a further nine similar incidents in the area that have happened since Friday, December 23, 2016, and believe the offences may be linked.

No arrests have been made.

Police Community Support Officer Mike Gowans, of Purbeck police, said: “In most of these incidents the offenders have cut through the padlocks that were securing the outbuildings and containers.

“I would urge anyone with information about who is responsible for these crimes to please contact Dorset Police.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who has seen similar items offered for sale locally in unusual circumstances.

“Finally, I would like to remind residents and businesses to ensure they keep their storage containers and outbuildings secure and report any suspicious activity to Dorset Police immediately.”