POLICE are urging residents of a village to be vigilant and to keep their homes secure after reports of "suspicious" men looking at properties.

Officers say they were made aware of men in Rainford "looking at properties" and behaving "suspiciously".

It is believed the suspicious incidents took place in the Old Lane area.

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On Friday (August 21) St Helens Police have issued a warning on Facebook to residents to make sure they keep valuables safe.

In a statement, police said: "We have received reports of suspicious males in the Rainford area looking at properties.

"Please stay vigilant and keep your doors and windows locked with the key.

"Keep car keys and valuables away from sight.

"Consider having a security light and CCTV installed."