A warning has been issued to Middleton residents following a spike in late-night burglaries and 'opportunist thieves' in the area.

Greater Manchester Police said it has received a number of reports of burglaries taking place overnight in the area recently.

The force warned offenders are gaining entry into the properties through ground-floor windows which have been left open amid the hot weather and while the victim is sleeping.

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In a post on social media, GMP said: "Opportunist thieves only need a few seconds to enter your insecure property and steal your valuables."

It is now advising residents to keep their windows closed at night to deter the thieves.

"Please ensure you do not leave your ground floor windows open overnight or if you are out of the room, remember to keep valuables away from open windows and lock your windows and doors if you go upstairs or outside", the post added.

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