POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information following two incidents in Basildon which officers believe may be linked.

The first was an attempted burglary at a property in Downey Close shortly before 2.20am on Monday, 13 February. Access to the address was not gained and nothing was taken (Crime reference 42/26475/23).

The second is a burglary at a property in Falkenham Rise at around 4am, also yesterday, in which two cars were taken. One of the cars was recovered after it was involved in a collision nearby. No arrests have been made (Crime reference 42/26489/23).

A police statement says: "If you have any information, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report, you can contact independent charity on Twitter at @CrimestoppersUK, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.

"Please quote crime reference 42/19367/23 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible."