A WIRRAL man was among five across Merseyside caught, charged and put before the courts as part of summer anti-burglary campaign by police.

Alan Davies, 45, of Euston Grove, Prenton, was charged with offences of burglary, theft, vehicle interference and fraud by false representation on Tuesday (June 4) as part of Operation Castle.

He was remanded in custody and appeared in court today (Wednesday, June 5). The case relates to reports being received on Monday, May 20 of a man trying door handles of cars and homes in Grafton Street, Oxton.

Further police enquiries established entry had been gained to a property and a pedal cycle and wallet stolen. A cash card was reportedly then used at a local garage.

The four other men arrested were from Liverpool and St Helens.

Detective Inspector Kevin O’Rourke from the force’s dedicated burglary team, known as Operation Castle, said: "These recent arrests relate to several different cases investigated by detectives in teams across the force area.

"Burglary is an invasive crime, and the cases often involve complex investigative work, so it is very pleasing when lines of enquiry and all the evidence gathering come together."

Detective Inspector O’Rourke added: "Whilst we are relentless in the pursuit of offenders and we welcome charges being brought, we know that many burglaries are preventable because offenders are often opportunistic.

"At this time of year, we see signs that criminals are taking advantage of the warmer weather so we are urging the public to take some simple measures that will make life difficult for potential burglars.

"Criminals will often try numerous handles on doors and windows in a street hoping to find at least one that opens easily.

"As summer approaches, these opportunities often become more inviting with the sight of doors and windows being left open to keep the occupants cool.

"Please remember to make sure you lock the door when you are at home as well as when you go out.

"Consider using trickle vents on windows or fans if they are available and double-check you have closed the windows overnight and when you leave the property.

“Don’t advertise your things to criminals – keep laptops and other valuables out of sight and remember to register your electronics and back up any work saved on them.

“Modern video surveillance cameras, including smart doorbells, can be very useful, particularly those with cloud-based apps, but you should check the guidance on the Information Commissioner’s Office website when installing CCTV at home.”

The support of communities is vital in helping the police put offenders behind bars.

If you discover video footage on your home security camera or smart doorbell showing someone acting suspiciously on your property, you can upload it for the attention of the Operation Castle team here

You can share any other information you think is useful via the Merseyside Police social media desk on X @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’.

You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form