A crime prevention initiative has returned to Upton after a spate of burglaries in the town.

Operation Buzzard has swooped into action again after five burglaries, and attempted burglaries, hit the town in the space of eight days.

The five crimes took place between August 1 and August 9, in a spate that has been described as "unusual."

Police officers will now be conducting high visibility, and plain clothes, patrols at key locations in the town and offering burglary prevention advice in response to the burglaries.

Sargeant Ian Blanchard, of Malvern Hills Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "In response to these offences, Malvern Cops has relaunched its Operation Buzzard strategy, in conjunction with the Malvern Hills Community Safety Partnership."

The burglaries took place in Gardens Walk, Hillsfield, Ham View, William Tennant Way and Hill View Gardens.

Police say they happened at empty properties, or while homeowners were away on holidays.

PC Dave Wise, of Malvern Police, said: "Burglary rates vary.

"Malvern has a very low crime rate overall. Five burglaries in one area in a short space of time is an unusual increase."

Operation Buzzard was launched throughout the Malvern Hills district earlier this year, and saw roadshow events, community gatherings and patrols take place in a bid to crack down on crime.

The police, district council, fire service and Neighbourhood Watch join together to coordinate the operation, to create the community partnership.

The force's Holiday House Watch scheme is still ongoing too.

Officers will visit a home while its owners are away regularly, and keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviour.

To request a free security assessment, email upton.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk

For more information on the house watch scheme email pickersleigh.snt@westmercia.pnn.police.uk