INCREASED police patrols are being carried out in Lyme Regis after more break-ins in the town.

As reported in the News, several shops were hit by break-ins and attempted break-ins in June.

Now though, police have renewed calls for businesses to check their security and make sure cash is removed from the premises.

Police said that between June 14 and July 11 there were nine break-ins to commercial premises in Lyme Regis town centre and investigations are ongoing.

These include a break-in to the Penny Black café on Broad Street on the night of July 6 and 7 which saw two cash boxes taken.

In addition to this on July 16 there was an attempted break-in at another commercial property on Broad Street but on this occasion it appeared that entry was not gained.

PC Richard Winward, from Dorset Police said that it seems “probable” that the burglaries in the last couple of weeks are part of the Lyme Regis series but they are looking at all possibilities.

He said: “Extra patrols are being carried out to try and prevent further burglaries, and to catch the offender or offenders.“Businesses must think about their security now, before the summer season gets into full swing. This includes not leaving cash on premises. The problem is that when cash is found, any burglar is encouraged to commit further breaks.”