A CAR, laptops and bank cards have all been taken in a spate of overnight burglaries.

Four homes in Calcot and Tilehurst were hit by thieves in the early hours on March 27 and 29.

Police believe the items were taken after the poachers reached through the letterbox and took the key from the inside of the door.

Handbags containing cash and bank cards, laptops, a satnav, car keys and a Blue Vauxhall Astra have all vanished in the last eight days.

One house on Fairwater Avenue was burgled between 12am and 6am last Monday, while three properties in Calcot were burgled on Wednesday morning.

Houses on Dunoon Close, Corsham Road and Narromine Close were all affected by the raids.

Police believe the four burglaries may all be linked.

Andrew Philpott, investigating officer for Newbury, said: “I am encouraging anyone who has any information about these incidents, or has seen anyone acting suspiciously around the Calcot or Tilehurst area to get in touch by calling the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number 101.

“Entry was gained through letterboxes, so please ensure that all doors are locked and the key removed even if you are at home.

“If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.”