Troon residents are being urged to check the locks on their sheds, garages and other outbuildings after reports of break-ins.

South Ayrshire Police plan to deploy extra patrols across the area.

Police issued the warning telling people to keep their doors and windows locked and to make use of security lighting and alarms.

Earlier this year, Police Scotland statistics showed a rise in thefts of bikes across the country at the same time as there was a surge in cycling under lockdown.

A total of 561 bicycles were reported stolen compared to 438 in 2019, according to Police Scotland figures from April 28 to May 26.

Outbuildings are targetted by theives who are commonly looking for bikes and valuable tools.

Police Scotland guidance says: "If you have a garden, it’s the first thing an intruder will have to deal with if they want to try and break into your house.

"There are also items in your garden or which you may keep in a garden shed or garage which a thief will find attractive.

"Photograph valuable items of garden furniture and/or garden tools.  Note and keep a record of the make, model, colour and serial numbers and use a UV pen or similar to security mark them with your house number and postcode."

A good quality padlock is also recommended as is the use of chains to lock garden tools and furniture together.

If your garage joins your home and there is a through door, keep it locked.