TWO Springfield homes were targeted by burglars in one night..and police believe the two break-in’s are linked.

The first happened when thieves forced open the front door of a house on Mayne Crest, stealing a fake designer handbag and its contents - all valued at just under £300.

The second break-in happened on nearby Downsway when thieves again forced open the front door of the house and made-off with a laptop.

Both burglaries happened between 11pm Wednesday, June 25 and 7am Thursday, June 26.

Investigating Officer, Dc Ray Hull, said: "We’re keen to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour, activity or unusual vehicles on the streets of Springfield during that Wednesday night, early Thursday morning.

“In addition, we would like to hear from anyone who has been offered a cream fake Louis Vitton handbag with matching purse, a share certificate or a dark silver Toshiba laptop in unusual circumstances within the past week.”

Anyone with information in connection with these two burglaries is urged to contact detectives at Chelmsford police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

*Following the break-ins, police reiterated the need for homeowners to close and lock doors and windows.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Those with uPVC doors should lock them by turning the handle up and using the key, even when indoors; as a number of burglars are simply pulling down on the outside door handle to disengage the security mechanism before releasing the door open using a screwdriver or other similar implement.”